☀️
← Back to Lexicon
G1231 · Greek · New Testament
διαγινώσκω
Diaginōskō
Verb
To Determine/Examine/Investigate

Definition

The Greek verb diaginōskō means to investigate thoroughly, determine after examination, or decide through careful inquiry. It appears in Acts 23:15 where the Jewish leaders pretend to want Paul brought back for more 'thorough examination,' and in Acts 24:22 where Felix deferred Paul's case until he could investigate it more thoroughly.

Usage & Theological Significance

The judicial examination implied in diaginōskō runs through the trial narratives of Paul in Acts. Felix's repeated deferrals under the guise of needing more thorough investigation reveal the corrupt heart of worldly justice — the examination is a pretense to avoid judgment. Paul himself welcomed examination, confident that thorough investigation would vindicate him. This models the Christian posture of integrity: we invite scrutiny because we have nothing to hide. Ultimately, diaginōskō points to the final divine examination — God's omniscient judgment where all will be known thoroughly.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 23:15 Now therefore you, together with the council, give notice to the tribune to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case more exactly.
Acts 24:22 But Felix, having a rather accurate knowledge of the Way, put them off, saying, 'When Lysias the tribune comes down, I will decide your case.'
1 Corinthians 4:3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself.
Romans 2:16 on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
Acts 25:21 But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I ordered him to be held until I could send him to Caesar.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️