ἑρμηνεύω (hermēneuō)
hermēneuō
to interpret
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hermēneuō means to explain or interpret what has been said or written. It appears in just three New Testament verses, yet it carries a clear sense of making meaning accessible to others. In Luke 24:27, the risen Jesus explains the Scriptures to his disciples, showing how the word applies to understanding divine truth.
Its root connects to Hermes, the messenger god, highlighting its role in bridging gaps between languages or ideas. John’s Gospel uses it twice: first when Andrew interprets Simon Peter’s discovery of the Messiah (John 1:41), and again when Philip explains Jesus to Nathanael (John 1:45). These examples show the word in action — not just translating words, but clarifying their significance.
Hebrews 7:2 uses it to describe how Melchizedek’s name is interpreted as “king of righteousness.” This usage shows the word can also refer to explaining the meaning behind a title or concept. Translators often render it as “interpret” or “explain,” depending on context.
Though rare, hermēneuō reminds us that understanding often requires someone to bridge the gap between what is said and what is heard. It reflects a fundamental human need — to make sense of the world through clear communication.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hermēneuō appears only three times in the New Testament, yet it describes a vital act of love: making truth accessible. When Andrew tells Peter he has found the Messiah, or when Philip explains Jesus to Nathanael, they are not merely translating words. They are bridging gaps between what was said and what was heard. This simple act invites us into deeper understanding.
In Luke 24, the risen Christ Himself uses this kind of interpretation to open the Scriptures to His disciples. He shows how ancient texts point to Him, turning confusion into clarity. Similarly, Hebrews notes that Melchizedek’s name means “king of righteousness,” helping readers grasp his significance beyond a mere title.
This word reminds us that faith often grows through explanation and shared insight. We do not always understand Scripture alone. Sometimes we need someone to help us see the meaning hidden in plain sight. It is a gentle invitation to listen, learn, and trust that God provides those who can guide us toward truth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- means2×
- being translated1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἑρμηνεύεται2×
- ἑρμηνευόμενος1×
Key Verses
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John 1:42
He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is by interpretation, Peter).
This verse shows how interpretation clarifies identity, as Jesus explains the meaning of 'Cephas' to reveal Peter's new role.
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Hebrews 7:2
to whom also Abraham divided a tenth part of all (being first, by interpretation, “king of righteousness”, and then also “king of Salem”, which means “king of peace”,
Here, interpretation unlocks theological depth by explaining Melchizedek’s name as 'king of righteousness,' linking title to character.
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John 9:7
and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means “Sent”). So he went away, washed, and came back seeing.
The note clarifies that 'Siloam' means 'Sent,' showing how interpretation connects physical places to spiritual significance in Jesus’ ministry.