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G1270 · Greek · New Testament
διανόημα
Dianoēma
Noun (neuter)
Thought / Understanding / Intent of Mind

Definition

The Greek noun dianoēma (διανόημα) refers to a thought, a mental conception, or the content of one's mind/understanding. It comes from dianoia (H1271, mind/understanding) and captures what the mind is actually thinking. It appears in Luke 11:17, where Jesus 'knowing their thoughts (dianoēma)' responds to the Pharisees' accusation that He casts out demons by Beelzebul.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus' ability to perceive dianoēma — the actual thoughts of His opponents — is a mark of His divinity. Only God knows the thoughts of the heart (Psalm 139:2; Jeremiah 17:10). In Luke 11, Jesus doesn't wait for their accusation to be verbalized; He responds to what they are thinking. This connects to Hebrews 4:12: 'The word of God is living and active... discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.' The gospel deals not just with behavior but with dianoēma — the inner world of thought. Transformation requires the renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2), not just external compliance.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 11:17 But he, knowing their thoughts (dianoēma), said to them, 'Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste.'
Hebrews 4:12 The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Psalm 139:2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.
Jeremiah 17:10 I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways.

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External Resources

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