ἐπιδείκνυμι (epideiknumi)
epideiknumi
to show/prove
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb epideiknumi means to show or display something clearly for others to see. It goes beyond simple visibility, implying that the object being shown is presented with purpose so it can be examined and understood. In the Gospels, Jesus uses this word when he asks his listeners to look at specific details, such as the lilies of the field in Matthew 6:28 or the fig tree’s branches in Matthew 24:32.
Its meaning comes from combining a prefix indicating emphasis with a root meaning "to show." This creates a sense of exhibiting something fully. In Acts, Paul uses it to describe how he demonstrated that Jesus is the Messiah through scripture (Acts 18:28). The word often carries the weight of proof, inviting observation that leads to recognition.
Translators typically render epideiknumi as "show" or "display." This choice captures the active nature of the verb. It is not passive revelation but a deliberate presentation. The focus remains on the clarity of what is shown and the invitation for the viewer to perceive it accurately.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word epideiknumi invites us to look closer at what God reveals. It is not about hiding truth but displaying it clearly for our understanding. When Jesus pointed to the lilies or the fig tree, He was not just making a statement; He was showing evidence that we could examine and trust.
In our own lives, this reminds us that faith is grounded in observable reality. God does not leave us guessing about His character or promises. Instead, He provides clear signs—like the resurrection of Christ—that stand as solid proof for our hope.
As you read Scripture, notice how often God shows rather than hides. This clarity is an act of grace, giving us a firm foundation to rest upon when doubts arise.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to show2×
- showing2×
- do show2×
- to point out1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐπιδεῖξαι3×
- ἐπιδείξατέ1×
- ἐπιδείξατε1×
- ἐπιδεικνύμεναι1×
- ἐπιδεικνὺς1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 24:1
Jesus went out from the temple, and was going on his way. His disciples came to him to show him the buildings of the temple.
The disciples use this word to draw Jesus' attention to the temple's physical grandeur, highlighting how visible structures often capture human admiration.
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Acts 18:28
for he powerfully refuted the Jews, publicly showing by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.
Paul uses this term to describe his public demonstration that Jesus is the Messiah, showing how scripture serves as clear evidence for faith.
-
Hebrews 6:17
In this way God, being determined to show more abundantly to the heirs of the promise the immutability of his counsel, interposed with an oath,
This verse shows God's deliberate effort to display His unchanging nature through an oath, providing believers with absolute certainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does epideiknumi mean in the Bible?
How is epideiknumi different from simple seeing?
Where does this word appear in Scripture?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 4 books)
Matthew 3 verses
The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing him, asked him to show them a sign from heaven.
Matthew 22:19Show me the tax money.” They brought to him a denarius.
Matthew 24:1Jesus went out from the temple, and was going on his way. His disciples came to him to show him the buildings of the…