Lexical Summary neuó: To nod, to signal Original Word: νεύω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance beckon. Apparently a primary verb; to "nod", i.e. (by analogy), signal -- beckon. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origina prim. verb Definition to nod or beckon (as a sign) NASB Translation gestured (1), nodded (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 3506: νεύωνεύω; 1 aorist participle νευσας; to give a nod; to signify by a nod (A. V. to beckon): τίνι, followed by an infinitive of what one wishes to be done, John 13:24; Acts 24:10. (From Homer down; the Sept. Proverbs 4:25.) (Compare: διανεύω, ἐκνεύω, ἐννεύω, Topical Lexicon Lexical Snapshotνεύω (neúō) is a vivid, action-oriented verb that describes a silent gesture—most often a nod or beckoning movement—made to convey a request, grant permission, or elicit information. Although it appears only twice in the Greek New Testament, its contexts shed light on patterns of interpersonal communication, authority, and discipleship in the apostolic era. Key Occurrences 1. John 13:24 “So Simon Peter motioned to him to ask Jesus which one He was talking about.” 2. Acts 24:10 “When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: ‘Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I gladly make my defense.’” Historical and Cultural Background • Greco-Roman Etiquette: Public assemblies, courtrooms, and banquets often relied on silent gestures to maintain formality. A nod from a superior conferred the right to speak or act, preserving hierarchical structures without disrupting order. • Jewish Table Customs: In first-century Passover settings, conversational flow was managed by subtle signals so that teaching could proceed uninterrupted. Peter’s use of νεύω respects that custom. • Nonverbal Literacy: Ancient audiences were keenly attuned to bodily cues. Writers could mention a single motion (νεύω) and assume readers would understand the social dynamics involved. Narrative and Theological Insights John 13:24 Acts 24:10 Ministry Applications 1. Communication: The passages remind believers that tone and manner can honor Christ as much as words. Discretion, timing, and respect for order adorn the gospel. 2. Leadership: Spiritual leaders, like Peter, should facilitate others’ engagement with Christ rather than dominate it. A simple gesture can empower quieter voices. 3. Civic Engagement: Paul’s example encourages Christians to participate in civic structures submissively yet confidently, trusting God’s sovereignty over earthly authorities. Related Biblical Concepts • σημαίνω (sēmainō) – “to signify,” stressing verbal or symbolic indication. Together these terms form a network showing how God’s people navigate speech and silence, authority and submission, public witness and private inquiry. Summary While νεύω appears only twice, it captures a crucial biblical principle: godly communication is not limited to spoken words. Whether at a sacred meal or in a secular courtroom, a single nod can serve the purposes of the kingdom—advancing revelation, honoring authority, and safeguarding the integrity of Christ’s witnesses. Forms and Transliterations νευει νεύει νευέτω νευσαντος νεύσαντος νεύση neuei neúei neusantos neúsantosLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance John 13:24 V-PIA-3SGRK: νεύει οὖν τούτῳ NAS: Peter gestured to him, and said KJV: therefore beckoned to him, INT: Makes a sign therefore to him Acts 24:10 V-APA-GMS Strong's Greek 3506 |
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