σύσσημον
sýssēmon
G4953 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A mutually recognized signal; something designated as a sign to coordinate action or convey a prearranged message. Most often denotes a pre-arranged sign, token, or signal that two or more parties agree upon in advance to communicate discreetly, warn, or coordinate their behavior. Can refer specifically to visible marks, gestures, or tokens which serve as signs to those who understand the context or information behind them.
Semantic Range
mutually agreed-upon signal, prearranged sign, token, watchword, identifying gesture, secret sign, covert signal
Root / Etymology
From the preposition σύν ('with, together') and σῆμα ('sign, mark, signal'), forming a compound meaning 'a mutual sign'. Directly related to σημαίνω ('to signify, indicate').
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Classical and Koine Greek, σύσσημον refers to any mutually agreed-upon sign or token, often in military, secretive, or coordinated contexts. Used especially for signals distinguishing friend from foe (such as watchwords or passwords in military settings) or for covert communication (such as a signal agreed upon between collaborators). In the Septuagint and New Testament, the word appears infrequently (e.g., Mark 14:44 in some manuscripts, referring to Judas's prearranged sign to identify Yeshua). English translations often render it 'sign' or 'signal', but may obscure the sense of advance coordination and mutual recognition. The term is more specific than general words for 'sign' (e.g., σημεῖον), focusing on prearranged signals. Its sense as a 'token' emphasizes its function as a marker with agreed meaning to a particular group or context. The nuance of being 'in common' or 'mutually agreed' distinguishes it from more general references to signs that do not require prior agreement.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
neuter of a compound of σύν and the base of σημαίνω; a sign in common, i.e. preconcerted signal:--token.
Root Family
σύσσημον (syssēmon) — sign, signal, mark
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4953-01 |
σύσσημον | sussemon | N ACC N SG |
a signal | a prearranged signal | a prearranged signal | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4953-01 |
Mark 14:44 | σύσσημον | sussemon | N ACC N SG |
a signal | a prearranged signal | a prearranged signal |