ὑποδείκνυμι (hupodeiknumi)
hupodeiknumi
to show
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupodeiknumi means to make something known by pointing it out or demonstrating it clearly. Its core idea involves placing an object or truth directly before someone’s view, often through explanation or argument rather than just physical presence. In the New Testament, this word appears six times, primarily in the Gospels and Acts, carrying a sense of authoritative instruction or revelation.
Its usage ranges from showing future events to teaching practical wisdom. For instance, Jesus uses it when identifying himself as the one who must suffer many things (Luke 9:22), effectively pointing out his destined path. Similarly, Paul employs it in Acts 20:35 to highlight a specific saying of the Lord about giving, using the term to underscore the importance of that teaching. The word implies a deliberate act of revealing truth for understanding.
Etymologically, hupodeiknumi combines hupo ("under" or "before") and deiknumi ("to show"). This construction suggests bringing something into clear view, often in a way that demands attention or recognition. Translators typically render it as "show," "make known," or "teach," depending on context. The term emphasizes clarity and intentionality in communication, distinguishing it from casual disclosure.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word hupodeiknumi carries a sense of deliberate demonstration. It is not merely casual display but an intentional act of pointing something out for clear understanding. When Jesus or His apostles used this term, they were revealing truth with purpose, inviting listeners to see reality as it truly is.
In Luke 6:47, this word appears when Jesus describes the person who hears and acts on His words. He says He will 'show' who such a person is like. This promise assures us that following Christ leads to visible stability and wisdom. It is a gentle invitation to build our lives on solid ground.
Similarly, in Acts 9:16, God tells Paul he must suffer for His name. Here, the word reveals a difficult path ahead with clarity. Even when the future holds hardship, this kind of showing provides purpose. We are not left in darkness but guided by One who knows the way.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- forewarned2×
- I will show2×
- will show1×
- I showed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑποδείξω3×
- ὑπέδειξεν2×
- ὑπέδειξα1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 6:47
Everyone who comes to me, and hears my words and does them, I will show you who he is like.
This occurrence highlights Jesus' promise to clearly demonstrate the stability of those who obey His teaching.
-
Acts 9:16
For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”
Here the word reveals the specific sufferings Paul must endure, showing God's clear plan for His servant.
-
Acts 20:35
In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”
Paul uses this term to point out the Lord's saying about giving, emphasizing its practical importance for community life.