δεικνύω (deiknuō)
deiknuō
to show
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 31 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb deiknuō means to show, exhibit, or make something visible. In the New Testament it appears thirty-one times, often describing physical acts like Jesus displaying his wounds after the resurrection (John 20:20) or the devil presenting worldly kingdoms in exchange for worship (Matthew 4:8). It can also refer to making knowledge known, as when Philip asks Jesus to show him the Father (John 14:8).
Beyond simple visual display, deiknuō carries the weight of proof and evidence. James uses it to argue that faith is demonstrated through works (James 2:18), while Revelation employs it to unveil divine mysteries and future events (Revelation 1:1). This dual sense bridges the gap between seeing with eyes and understanding through revelation, marking it as a key term for how truth becomes manifest in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word deiknuō invites us to look closely at how truth becomes visible in our lives. It is not merely about pointing a finger, but about making something real and evident through action or presence. When Jesus showed his wounds after the resurrection, he did not just speak of hope; he displayed the proof of victory over death. This physical demonstration reassured the disciples that their faith was grounded in reality, not abstract ideas.
In our daily walk, this concept reminds us that faith often requires visible evidence to strengthen our trust. We see this when James encourages believers to let their works demonstrate their faith. It is a gentle invitation to live in such a way that others can see the character of God at work in us. This visibility does not demand perfection, but rather an honest and open life where love and wisdom are clearly displayed.
Ultimately, deiknuō points to a God who reveals himself freely. He shows us his ways through Scripture, through community, and through the tangible acts of grace we experience. As we seek to understand his will, we can trust that he makes known what is necessary for our growth. This revelation is a gift, offered with patience and clarity, inviting us to respond with gratitude and deeper commitment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 31 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do show7×
- will show3×
- to show3×
- he showed3×
- I will show3×
- shows2×
- He showed2×
- show You1×
- is showing1×
- he should show1×
- having been shown1×
- has shown1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δεῖξον5×
- ἔδειξεν4×
- δείξω4×
- δείξει4×
- ἔδειξέν2×
- δεῖξαι2×
- δείκνυσιν2×
- ἔδειξα1×
- δεῖξόν1×
- δείξω.¶1×
- δείξατέ1×
- δείκνυμι.¶1×
Key Verses
-
John 20:20
When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples therefore were glad when they saw the Lord.
Jesus displays his physical wounds to provide tangible proof of his resurrection, turning the disciples' grief into joy through visible evidence.
-
James 2:18
Yes, a man will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
The author uses the word to argue that genuine faith must be demonstrated through observable actions, making internal belief externally evident.
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John 14:9
Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you such a long time, and do you not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father. How do you say, ‘Show us the Father’?
Jesus responds to Philip’s request by revealing that seeing him is equivalent to seeing the Father, showing divine nature through human form.
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Revelation of John 1:1
This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things which must happen soon, which he sent and made known by his angel to his servant, John,
The text describes God giving Jesus the task to show his servants future events, highlighting the word’s role in revealing divine mysteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does deiknuō mean in the New Testament?
How is deiknuō different from other words for 'see'?
Why is this word important for understanding faith?
Every Occurrence (31 verses across 10 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Again, the devil took him to an exceedingly high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.
Matthew 8:4Jesus said to him, “See that you tell nobody; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses…
Matthew 16:21From that time, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders,…