ἔνδειγμα (endeigma)
endeigma
evidence
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun endeigma denotes a clear token or visible proof that something is true. Its meaning comes from its root structure: en ("in") and deiknymi ("to show"), effectively describing something that shows itself within a situation. This distinguishes it from the related word endexis, which refers to the act of proving rather than the tangible evidence itself.
In Scripture, this term appears only once, in Second Thessalonians 1:5. Paul uses it to describe the believers' endurance and faith as a public demonstration of God's righteous judgment. The sources note that while synonyms like tekmerion exist for proof, endeigma emphasizes the visible nature of the evidence. It is not hidden speculation but a plain token that observers can recognize.
Translators typically render this word as "evidence" or "proof." The usage highlights how character and perseverance serve as concrete indicators of spiritual reality. Rather than relying on abstract arguments, the text points to observable behavior as the definitive sign of divine justice and faithfulness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When life feels heavy and your faith is tested, it can be hard to see any spiritual gain in the struggle. Yet this word reminds us that our endurance is not invisible noise. It serves as a clear token, a visible proof that stands out to those watching. Your steady trust in God during difficult times becomes a concrete indicator of His presence and justice.
In Second Thessalonians, Paul points to the believers' perseverance as an obvious sign of God's righteous judgment. This means your character and faithfulness are not just private matters. They act as evidence that God is at work, shaping you to be worthy of His Kingdom even while you suffer for it.
There is comfort in knowing that your steadfastness has meaning beyond your own experience. It testifies to the reality of God's kingdom. You do not need to argue or explain yourself constantly; your life itself speaks with clarity and hope.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [This is] a plain token1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔνδειγμα1×
Key Verses
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II Thessalonians 1:5
This is an obvious sign of the righteous judgment of God, to the end that you may be counted worthy of God’s Kingdom, for which you also suffer.
Paul uses this term to identify the believers' endurance as an obvious sign that God's righteous judgment is actively at work.