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σημεῖον

sēmeîon

G4592 noun

SILEX Entry

Root σημ- to mark, to signify, to indicate

Definition

A distinguishing mark, signal, or sign; primarily denotes something that serves to point out, identify, or convey meaning—such as a sign, token, or indication. In extended contexts, can refer to an event or object regarded as a portent, signifying divine or remarkable activity, or as evidence of authenticity, authority, or identity. In some contexts, specifically denotes a miraculous event or extraordinary phenomenon interpreted as a sign, especially in relation to deeds ascribed to divine agency.

Semantic Range

sign, distinguishing mark, signal, token, indication, proof, evidence, omen, portent, miraculous sign, miracle (when interpreted as a sign), extraordinary event regarded as a sign, authentication

Root / Etymology

From the noun-forming suffix -ειον added to the root σημ- (relating to marking, signifying); derived from σῆμα (sēma, ‘sign, mark, signal’). Thus, σημεῖον means 'that which is marked out,' 'a sign.' Cognate with the verb σημαίνω (sēmainō, ‘to signify, indicate, make known’).

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, σημεῖον refers generically to any sign, distinguishing mark, or token—including military standards, omens, written characters, or clues. In Hellenistic Greek (including the Septuagint), it becomes a technical term for wonders or miraculous events as signs of divine action, especially in narrative or prophetic contexts—e.g., σημεῖα as 'signs and portents' performed before Pharaoh in Exodus. In the New Testament, it is frequently used to denote acts viewed as evidence of divine authority (often contrasted with δύναμις, 'mighty deed')—especially the 'signs' performed by Jesus in the Gospel of John, where 'sign' functions as evidence authenticating Jesus' identity and mission. English translations often use 'sign' or 'miracle,' but the word's usage in context ranges from ordinary signals or tokens to extraordinary, divinely-interpreted events. It does not inherently mean 'miracle' but may refer to miracles when those acts are given interpretive weight as signs of something greater. Unlike τέρας ('wonder'), which emphasizes awe, or δύναμις ('mighty work'), which emphasizes power, σημεῖον centers on what the event points toward or signifies. The meaning is context-dependent and not limited to the supernatural.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of σημαίνω; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally:--miracle, sign, token, wonder.

Root Family

σημεῖον (sēmeion) — sign, distinguishing mark, signal, indication, proof

Word Forms

3 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G4592-03 σημεῖον semeion N ACC N SG sign a sign 41
G4592-01 σημεῖα semeia N ACC N PL signs signs 32
G4592-02 σημείοις semeiois N DAT N PL signs to signs 4

Occurrences in Scripture

77 total occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G4592-03 Matthew 12:38 σημεῖον semeion N ACC N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 12:39 σημεῖον semeion N ACC N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 12:39 σημεῖον semeion-2 N NOM N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 12:39 σημεῖον semeion-3 N NOM N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 16:1 σημεῖον semeion N ACC N SG a sign
G4592-01 Matthew 16:3 σημεῖα semeia N ACC N PL signs
G4592-03 Matthew 16:4 σημεῖον semeion N ACC N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 16:4 σημεῖον semeion-2 N NOM N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 16:4 σημεῖον semeion-3 N NOM N SG a sign
G4592-03 Matthew 24:3 σημεῖον semeion N NOM N SG a sign
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