The term "signifieth" is an archaic form of the word "signifies," which means to indicate, represent, or convey a particular meaning or message. In the context of the Bible, "signifieth" is often used to describe how certain actions, symbols, or words convey deeper spiritual truths or divine messages. This term is found in older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version, and is used to express the idea that something has a particular significance or meaning beyond its literal sense.

Biblical Usage and Context

In the Scriptures, the concept of signification is crucial for understanding the layers of meaning in biblical narratives, prophecies, and teachings. The Bible often uses symbolic language, parables, and metaphors to convey spiritual truths. The use of "signifieth" helps readers discern these deeper meanings.

1. Prophetic Symbolism: In the prophetic books, symbols and visions often "signify" future events or divine truths. For example, in the Book of Daniel and Revelation, various beasts, horns, and other symbols are used to signify kingdoms, powers, and spiritual realities. Understanding what these symbols "signifieth" is essential for interpreting prophetic literature.

2. Parables of Jesus: Jesus frequently used parables to teach spiritual truths. These accounts, while simple on the surface, signify deeper meanings about the Kingdom of God, human nature, and divine grace. For instance, the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9) signifies the different responses to the Gospel message.

3. Sacrificial System: The Old Testament sacrificial system is rich with signification. The sacrifices, rituals, and feasts signify various aspects of atonement, holiness, and the relationship between God and His people. For example, the Passover lamb signifies Christ, the ultimate sacrifice for sin (1 Corinthians 5:7).

4. Covenantal Signs: Covenants in the Bible often come with signs that signify the promises and commitments made between God and His people. The rainbow, for instance, signifies God's promise to Noah never to flood the earth again (Genesis 9:12-17).

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the term "signifieth" is used to explain the meaning behind certain actions or words. For example, in John 12:33 , it is written, "He said this to signify the kind of death He was going to die." Here, Jesus' words and actions signify His impending crucifixion and the manner of His sacrificial death.

Similarly, in John 21:19 , it is stated, "Jesus said this to signify the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God." This indicates that Jesus' words had a prophetic significance regarding Peter's future martyrdom.

Theological Implications

The use of "signifieth" in the Bible underscores the importance of seeking the spiritual and theological meanings behind biblical texts. It invites believers to look beyond the surface and understand the divine messages conveyed through Scripture. This approach aligns with the belief that the Bible is not only a historical document but also a living word that speaks to the spiritual realities and truths of God's kingdom.

In summary, "signifieth" is a term that highlights the rich, multi-layered meanings found within the biblical text. It calls for a deeper exploration of how God's word communicates His will, purposes, and truths to humanity.

"Prayer is a Right Understanding of that Fulness of Joy that is to ...
... Then signifieth He thus, as if He said: Behold and see that I have done all
this before thy prayers; and now thou art, and prayest me. ...
/.../julian/revelations of divine love/chapter xlii prayer is a.htm

Psalm CL.
... Firstly, the number fifteen, whereof it is a multiple this number fifteen,
I say, signifieth the agreement of the two Testaments. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cl.htm

A Plain Description of the Essence and Attributes of God, Out of ...
... Hence it is that the Scriptures use the name of God two manner of ways: either
essentially, and then it signifieth the three persons conjointly; or personally ...
/.../bayly/the practice of piety/a plain description of the.htm

Psalm CXI.
... not the term and passing away of a certain season is signified, but that blessed
eternity; because the denary [4986] added to forty signifieth the reward paid ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cxi.htm

Psalm CXLVIII.
... That which is before Easter signifieth tribulation, in which we now are; that which
we are now keeping after Easter, signifieth the bliss in which we shall ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cxlviii.htm

Psalm XCIII.
... then man is made in the image of God. That sixth day in Genesis signifieth
this.... 2. "The Lord reigneth, He is clothed with beauty ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xciii.htm

Psalm XXXIV.
... Because the Foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the Weakness of God is stronger
than men." [706] For spittle signifieth foolishness; spittle signifieth ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xxxiv.htm

"My Sin Shall not Hinder his Goodness Working. . . . A Deed Shall ...
... shall do right nought but sin. Then signifieth our Lord God thus, as if
He said: Behold and see! Here hast thou matter of meekness ...
/.../julian/revelations of divine love/chapter xxxvi my sin shall.htm

Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ...
... to come, or with reference to God's acts of choosing this or that man to this or
that office, work, or employment in this world, it still signifieth such a ...
/.../the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/reprobation asserted or the doctrine.htm

Hebrews xii. 18-24
... And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken,
as of things that are made, that those which cannot be shaken may remain ...
/.../homily xxxii hebrews xii 18-24.htm

Signifieth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Signifieth (1 Occurrence). Hebrews 12:27 And
this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those ...
/s/signifieth.htm - 6k

Signify (6 Occurrences)

/s/signify.htm - 8k

Signifies (4 Occurrences)

/s/signifies.htm - 7k

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