Brief Overview of διανεύω (G1269: dianéuō)

Word Details

• Transliteration: διανεύω (dianéuō) [dee-ah-NYOO-oh]
• Etymology: From the root words διά (G1223: diá) meaning through, by means of and νεύω (G3506: neúō) meaning to nod, to signal.
• Part of Speech: Verb
• Jean Paul’s Commentary & Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To nod or signal: Typically with the head, often as a form of non-verbal communication.
• To gesture: Used as a way to communicate or indicate something without words.
• To direct or beckon: Signaling someone to come or to indicate a specific direction through a gesture.

Lexicon Descriptions

BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich):

• διανεύω is defined as the act of nodding or making a gesture, usually to communicate or signal something non-verbally. It often implies directing or indicating through a motion rather than spoken words.
• Scripture References: Luke 1:62

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer describes διανεύω as meaning to nod or gesture, specifically as a way to convey a message or instruction without the use of speech. This can involve any form of non-verbal communication, such as a nod of the head.
• Scripture References: Luke 1:62

Vine’s Expository Dictionary:

• Vine’s explains διανεύω as to nod or make a gesture, particularly in situations where communication occurs without spoken words. The term underscores the significance of non-verbal actions in conveying messages.
• Scripture References: Luke 1:62

LSJ (Liddell, Scott, Jones):

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• LSJ defines διανεύω as to signal or gesture, especially with the head or hand. It is used in various contexts to describe non-verbal communication, often involving subtle motions to indicate something or direct someone.
• Scripture References: Luke 1:62

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:

• Strong’s defines διανεύω as a compound word from διά (G1223: diá) and νεύω (G3506: neúō), meaning to nod or signal. The term is used to describe the act of making a gesture to communicate or indicate something, usually without words.
• Scripture References: Luke 1:62

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

• Homer, Iliad: Homer uses διανεύω to depict the gestures made by characters during conversations or commands, where a nod or motion of the head is used to communicate without words, especially in situations of secrecy or subtlety.
• Herodotus, Histories: In Herodotus’ historical accounts, διανεύω is employed in diplomatic contexts, where leaders and envoys would use non-verbal gestures to signal agreements or intentions, often in situations requiring discretion.
• Sophocles, Antigone: Sophocles utilizes διανεύω in his plays to illustrate the characters’ subtle gestures, such as a nod of approval or a beckoning motion, to convey emotions or decisions without explicit dialogue.

Summary

διανεύω (G1269: dianéuō) is a Greek verb that carries the primary meanings of nodding, signaling, or gesturing, typically as a form of non-verbal communication. Derived from the combination of διά (through, by means of) and νεύω (to nod, to signal), the term emphasizes the importance of gestures in communication, especially when words are not used. In the New Testament, διανεύω is specifically mentioned in Luke 1:62, where it describes the act of gesturing or signaling to communicate. This verb is also found in various contexts in classical Greek literature, where it plays a key role in non-verbal interactions, whether in everyday communication, diplomatic discussions, or dramatic expressions. Through its usage, διανεύω highlights the significance of non-verbal cues in conveying messages, making it an essential concept in understanding both ancient and modern forms of communication.