Brief Overview of αἴνιγμα (Strong’s G135)

αἴνιγμα (G135) – Ainigma:
The Greek term “αἴνιγμα” is a noun used in the New Testament with specific implications.

1. General Meaning:

• Riddle or Mystery: The primary meaning of “αἴνιγμα” is “riddle” or “mystery.” It denotes something that is puzzling, enigmatic, or difficult to understand. This term is used to describe something that is not immediately clear or straightforward.
• Biblical Usage: The term appears in contexts where the meaning or significance of something is obscure or not easily discerned.

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1. Biblical Usage:

• Examples: In the New Testament, the term is used metaphorically to describe statements or teachings that are difficult to comprehend fully, such as in 1 Corinthians 13:12, where Paul speaks of seeing “through a glass, darkly” or in a riddle-like manner.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

αἴνιγμα (G135) – Ainigma:

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Definition: Strong’s Concordance defines “αἴνιγμα” as a “riddle” or “enigma.” It indicates that the term is used to denote something that is hidden or mysterious, requiring interpretation or insight.
• Usage Examples: Strong’s cites its use in 1 Corinthians 13:12, where it reflects the notion of understanding in part or through a metaphorical lens.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Definition: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “αἴνιγμα” as a “riddle” or “proverb,” emphasizing its role in conveying something obscure or complex.
• Contextual Usage: Thayer’s explains that the term is used in 1 Corinthians 13:12 to illustrate the partial understanding of divine truths or spiritual matters.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Definition: Vine’s Dictionary identifies “αἴνιγμα” as a “riddle” or “dark saying.” It highlights its use in describing statements or teachings that are not immediately clear.
• Usage Examples: Vine’s explains that the term is used in 1 Corinthians 13:12 to signify the limited or imperfect understanding of spiritual truths.

1. BDAG Greek-English Lexicon:

• Definition: BDAG defines “αἴνιγμα” as a “riddle” or “mystery.” It provides a nuanced explanation of its use in contexts where the meaning is not immediately apparent.
• Usage Examples: BDAG points to 1 Corinthians 13:12 as a key example where the term is used to describe the current state of partial understanding.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• Definition: LSJ lists “αἴνιγμα” as a “riddle” or “enigma,” referring to something that is puzzling or difficult to interpret.
• Contextual Usage: LSJ supports the interpretation of the term as denoting something obscure or complex, especially in the context of divine or spiritual matters.

Usage in the New Testament:

• Examples: The term “αἴνιγμα” is used in 1 Corinthians 13:12 to describe the partial and imperfect nature of human understanding in contrast to the full clarity that will be achieved in the future. It metaphorically represents the current state of seeing things dimly or through a “riddle-like” lens.

Summary:
“αἴνιγμα” (G135) is a Greek noun meaning “riddle” or “mystery.” It denotes something puzzling or difficult to understand, often used in a metaphorical sense in the New Testament to describe partial or obscure understanding. According to Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, Vine’s Dictionary, BDAG, and LSJ, the term reflects the notion of hidden or enigmatic meanings that require interpretation. Its use in 1 Corinthians 13:12 illustrates the concept of seeing through a dim or riddle-like perspective before achieving complete clarity.