διανοίγω
dianoigō
to open up
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word "διανοίγω" (dianoigō) means to open up. This physical action can involve breaking apart or uncovering something that was previously closed or blocked. In its eight occurrences throughout the New Testament, dianoigō is used in various contexts, showcasing its versatility. In some instances, opening up refers to a literal action, such as physical doors or locks. Its usage highlights the idea of accessibility, as in opening up a passageway for safe passage. In other examples, it metaphorically conveys the idea of spiritual understanding or revelation, where previously closed or obscure truths are revealed. While the frequency and contexts of dianoigō's usage are limited, its significance lies in conveying ideas of accessibility, revelation, and spiritual understanding. By opening up, one gains access to new knowledge and insight, illustrating the richness and depth of spiritual experiences and knowledge.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
8 total occurrences across the text
Looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!”
Luke 2:23(as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),
Luke 24:31Their eyes were opened and they recognized him, then he vanished out of their sight.
Luke 24:32They said to one another, “Weren’t our hearts burning within us, while he spoke to us along the way, and while he opened the Scriptures to us?”
Luke 24:45Then he opened their minds, that they might understand the Scriptures.
Acts 7:56and said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”
Acts 16:14A certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, one who worshiped God, heard us. The Lord opened her heart to listen to the things which were spoken by Paul.
Acts 17:3explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.”