Brief Overview of Γνωρίζω (G1107: gnōrízō)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γνωρίζω (transliterated as gnōrízō and pronounced as “gno-REE-zo”) is a verb that primarily means “to make known,” “to declare,” or “to reveal.” It is derived from the root word γνῶσις (gnōsis), which means “knowledge” or “understanding.” The verb gnōrízō carries the idea of imparting knowledge or making something known to someone else. This can involve sharing information, revealing a mystery, or declaring a truth.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In various lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s, γνωρίζω is discussed as a verb that emphasizes the act of making something known that was previously hidden or unknown. BDAG highlights that gnōrízō is used in the New Testament in contexts where something is revealed or made clear to a person or group. Thayer’s Lexicon also underscores its use in the sense of making known by speech or writing, especially in conveying important or divine truths.

γνωρίζω is used in several key New Testament passages. For example, in Luke 2:15, the shepherds say, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known (gnōrízō) to us.” Here, the word is used to describe the revelation of the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. Another significant usage is in Ephesians 1:9, where Paul writes that God has “made known (gnōrízō) to us the mystery of His will.” This emphasizes the idea of divine revelation, where God discloses His purposes to humanity.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γνωρίζω is used similarly to convey the act of making something known or revealing information. For example, in the works of Xenophon, gnōrízō is employed to describe the act of informing or making a fact known to others. Another instance can be found in the writings of Herodotus, where the term is used to refer to the declaration of important news or events. Additionally, in the writings of Plutarch, gnōrízō is often used in the context of revealing or making known important decisions or judgments.

Summary:
The word γνωρίζω (G1107), transliterated as gnōrízō, is a Greek verb meaning “to make known,” “to declare,” or “to reveal.” It is derived from the root word gnōsis, which signifies knowledge or understanding. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize its use in the New Testament to describe the act of revealing information or divine truths, often associated with God making His will known to humanity. In classical Greek literature, gnōrízō is used in similar contexts, including the declaration of important news or events. The term carries a significant theological weight in the New Testament, as it often pertains to the revelation of divine mysteries and truths, making it an essential word for understanding how knowledge and revelation are communicated in the biblical texts.