Pronunciation Guide: ah-EE-nig-mah

Basic Definition

Strong’s G135: A riddle, an enigma, or something expressed in obscure language. In biblical usage, it specifically refers to an indirect or dim vision of reality, particularly contrasting our current limited spiritual perception with the perfect, face-to-face knowledge we will have in eternity.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Noun (Neuter)
• From the verb αἰνίσσομαι (ainissomai) – to speak in riddles
• Used primarily in wisdom literature and theological discourse
• Found in both literal and metaphorical contexts

αἴνιγμα Morphology:

• αἴνιγμα (nominative/accusative singular) – a riddle/enigma
• αἰνίγματος (genitive singular) – of a riddle/enigma
• αἰνίγματι (dative singular) – in/by a riddle/enigma
• αἰνίγματα (nominative/accusative plural) – riddles/enigmas

Origin & History

The word αἴνιγμα has a rich history in classical Greek literature, appearing in works as early as the 5th century BC. In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, it describes the famous riddle of the Sphinx, demonstrating its use for complex puzzles requiring divine wisdom to solve.

In ancient Greek culture, αἴνιγμα was often associated with oracular prophecies, particularly those from Delphi, where divine messages were delivered in cryptic forms requiring interpretation. Plato uses the term in his Republic to describe the philosophical journey from obscure understanding to clear truth.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A puzzling statement or question requiring insight to understand
• An indirect or obscure representation of reality
• A veiled or symbolic expression of truth
• A statement containing hidden meaning

αἴνιγμα Translation Options:

• “Riddle” – emphasizes the puzzling nature requiring solution
• “Dark saying” – highlights the obscure or veiled nature
• “Enigma” – captures the mysterious and complex aspects
• “Mirror dimly” (in context of 1 Corinthians 13:12) – emphasizes incomplete perception

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, αἴνιγμα appears most notably in 1 Corinthians 13:12, where Paul uses it to describe our current limited spiritual perception compared to the perfect understanding we will have in eternity. The term also appears in the Septuagint, particularly in Numbers 12:8, describing how יהוה (Yahweh) spoke to Moses not in riddles [αἰνίγματα] but face to face.

The concept is deeply connected to the biblical theme of progressive revelation, where divine truth is unveiled gradually through redemptive history.

Biblical Cross References:

• “For now we see in a mirror dimly [δι’ αἰνίγματος] through an enigma” 1 Corinthians 13:12
• “With him I speak mouth to mouth, clearly, and not in riddles [αἰνίγμασιν]” Numbers 12:8

Cultural Insights

In ancient Near Eastern culture, riddles and enigmatic sayings were not merely entertainment but were considered a mark of wisdom and divine insight. Kings and sages would often engage in riddle contests to demonstrate their wisdom, as seen in the meeting between Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

The concept of seeing “through a glass darkly” (as αἴνιγμα is rendered in the KJV of 1 Corinthians 13:12) would have been particularly meaningful to the Corinthian audience. Corinth was famous for its bronze mirrors, which provided a reflection that was real but imperfect – a powerful metaphor for our current understanding of spiritual realities.

Theological Significance

The use of αἴνιγμα in Scripture points to the profound truth that while God has revealed Himself to humanity, our current understanding is limited and partial. This creates a beautiful tension between the reality that we can truly know God through His revelation, while acknowledging that our knowledge is not yet complete.

This concept reinforces both the transcendence and immanence of God – He is beyond our full comprehension, yet He condescends to reveal Himself to us in ways we can understand, albeit partially. The promise that one day we will see “face to face” highlights the eschatological hope of perfect communion with God.

The progressive nature of divine revelation suggested by αἴνιγμα also points to the ultimate revelation in the Messiah Jesus, who is the clearest expression of God’s nature (Hebrews 1:1-3).

Personal Application

Understanding αἴνιγμα should inspire both humility and hope in our spiritual journey. While we may sometimes feel frustrated by our limited understanding of God’s ways, we can take comfort in knowing this is a normal part of the human experience of faith.

This word encourages us to maintain a learner’s posture, always seeking to understand more deeply while remaining humble about our current knowledge. It reminds us that our present questions and uncertainties will one day give way to perfect understanding in His presence.

Related Words

• μυστήριον (mystērion) – mystery, secret truth – differs in emphasizing hidden truth rather than unclear perception See G3466
• παραβολή (parabolē) – parable, comparison – focuses on teaching through analogy See G3850
• σκιά (skia) – shadow, foreshadowing – emphasizes the prefiguring aspect See G4639
• τύπος (typos) – type, pattern – stresses the exemplary nature See G5179

Did you Know?

• The English word “enigma” comes directly from the Greek αἴνιγμα, and the famous WWII encoding machine was named “Enigma” because its messages were considered unsolvable riddles.
• Ancient Greek philosophical schools often used αἴνιγμα to describe the process of gaining wisdom, viewing it as a journey from unclear to clear understanding, much like Plato’s allegory of the cave.
• In early Christian catechism, teachers would often use αἴνιγμα-style teaching methods, gradually revealing deeper spiritual truths as students progressed in their understanding.

Remember This

αἴνιγμα reminds us that our current limited understanding of divine truth is not a flaw but a feature of our earthly journey, pointing us toward the glorious day when we shall know fully, even as we are fully known.