αἴνιγμα
aínigma
G135 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A figure of speech, riddle, or enigmatic saying; something obscure or puzzling in meaning, often requiring interpretation or clarification. In particular, a statement or utterance whose meaning is intentionally hidden or veiled, so as not to be immediately understood. In some contexts, it refers to the quality of being enigmatic or obscure ('obscureness').
Semantic Range
riddle, enigmatic saying, figure of speech, puzzling utterance, obscurity (of meaning or perception), enigmaticalness
Root / Etymology
From the Greek αἴνιγμα, related to αἰνίσσομαι ('to speak in riddles'), itself derived from αἶνος ('story, tale, fable') with the verb-forming suffix. The precise origin is debated; direct derivation from αἶνος is plausible due to thematic connection with speech and narrative.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term αἴνιγμα occurs in classical Greek literature (e.g., Herodotus, Sophocles) with the sense of 'riddle' or 'enigmatic saying.' In the Septuagint (LXX), notably in Numbers 12:8 and Proverbs 1:6, αἴνιγμα translates the Hebrew חידה (ḥidah), meaning riddle, parable, or obscure saying meant for contemplation. In 1 Corinthians 13:12, Paul employs the word to describe the indirect, imperfect nature of human perception of divine realities: 'for now we see by means of a mirror, in an enigma' (δι’ ἐσόπτρου ἐν αἰνίγματι), contrasting present partial knowledge with future clarity. English translations such as 'darkly' (KJV) or 'dimly' (modern versions) render the conceptual obscurity but do not capture the specific sense of 'riddle' or 'enigmatic figure.' Thus, while the concept of unclear perception is present, the Greek emphasizes the notion of a saying or perception whose meaning is veiled. The word does not connote darkness or evil, but puzzling or intentionally concealed meaning. Its use in Greek literature and Jewish scriptures reflects the association with wisdom literature and prophetic oracles often delivered in enigmatic forms.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from a derivative of αἶνος (in its primary sense); an obscure saying ("enigma"), i.e. (abstractly) obscureness:--X darkly.
Root Family
αἴνιγμα (ainigma) — riddle, enigmatic saying, obscure utterance, obscurity of meaning
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G135-01 |
αἰνίγματι | ainigmati | N DAT N SG |
dimly | in a riddle | in a riddle | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G135-01 |
1 Corinthians 13:12 | αἰνίγματι | ainigmati | N DAT N SG |
dimly | in a riddle | in a riddle |