ἐνδείκνυμι (endeiknumi)
endeiknumi
to show
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb endeiknumi means to show, demonstrate, or prove something clearly. It appears eleven times in the New Testament, primarily in Paul’s letters and Hebrews. The word carries a sense of making something visible or evident, often through action rather than just words.
Its core idea is pointing out or manifesting by act. For example, Romans 2:15 speaks of the law’s requirement being “shown” in the hearts of Gentiles, while Ephesians 2:7 describes God “showing” his riches through kindness. In Titus 3:2, believers are urged to show gentleness to everyone, and Hebrews 6:10 notes that God is not unjust to forget their work and love shown toward his name.
The word combines the prefix en- (“in”) with deiknumi (“to show”), suggesting an inward manifestation made outwardly clear. It often appears with a direct object (what is shown) and sometimes a dative of person (to whom it is shown). This usage highlights how inner reality becomes visible in behavior, whether in divine mercy or human conduct.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word endeiknumi reminds us that faith is not a hidden secret but a visible reality. It means to show or demonstrate something clearly through action. When we love, serve, or endure hardship, we are making the inner work of God visible to those around us. This is not about performing for applause, but letting our lives point to the truth of who God is.
Consider how Ephesians 2:7 describes God showing His grace through kindness. He does not just speak of love; He displays it in a way we can see and feel. In the same way, your daily acts of patience or generosity are not small things. They are moments where the invisible becomes evident.
God sees these quiet demonstrations. Hebrews 6:10 assures us that He does not forget the work and love you have shown. Your efforts matter to Him, and they serve as a gentle witness to others. Let your life be a clear showing of His kindness, trusting that He values every step of faithfulness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to show2×
- showing2×
- you have shown1×
- show1×
- may display1×
- is showing1×
- did;1×
- I may show1×
- He may show1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐνδείξηται2×
- ἐνδεικνυμένους2×
- ἐνεδείξατο·1×
- ἐνεδείξασθε1×
- ἐνδείξωμαι1×
- ἐνδείξασθαι1×
- ἐνδείκνυσθαι1×
- ἐνδείκνυνται1×
- ἐνδεικνύμενοι1×
Key Verses
-
Ephesians 2:7
that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus;
This verse highlights God's initiative in displaying His grace through tangible kindness, setting the pattern for how believers should manifest love.
-
Hebrews 6:10
For God is not unrighteous, so as to forget your work and the labor of love which you showed toward his name, in that you served the saints, and still do serve them.
Here the word confirms that God actively remembers and values the visible acts of service and love performed by believers.
-
Titus 3:2
to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all humility toward all men.
The call to show humility is presented as a practical behavior toward all people, demonstrating faith through gentle conduct.
-
Romans 9:17
For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I caused you to be raised up, that I might show in you my power, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
God uses Pharaoh's life to demonstrate His power, showing that even difficult circumstances can serve to make His strength evident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does endeiknumi mean in the New Testament?
How is endeiknumi different from other words for 'show'?
Why is this word important for Christian living?
Every Occurrence (11 verses across 7 books)
Romans 3 verses
in that they show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience testifying with them, and their…
Romans 9:17For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I caused you to be raised up, that I might show in you my…
Romans 9:22What if God, willing to show his wrath and to make his power known, endured with much patience vessels of wrath…