know, knew, knowledge, known, unknown, distinguish

Definition

Used in this sense the term “know” and “knowledge” mean generally to understand something. It can also mean to be aware of a fact. The expression “to make known” means to tell information.

• The term “knowledge” refers to information that people know. It can apply to knowing physical concepts or abstract concepts.
• To “know about” God means to understand facts about him because of what he has revealed to us.
• To “know the Law” means to be aware of what God has commanded or to understand what God has instructed in the laws he gave to Moses.
• Sometimes “knowledge” is used as a synonym for “wisdom,” which includes living in a way that is pleasing to God.
• The “knowledge of God” is sometimes used as a synonym for the “fear of Yahweh.”

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, ways to translate “know” could include “understand” or “be familiar with” or “be aware of” or “be acquainted with.”
• In the context of understanding the difference between two things, the term is usually translated as “distinguish.” When used in this way, the term is often followed by the preposition “between.”
• The term “make known” could be translated as “cause people to know” or “reveal” or “tell about” or “explain.”
• To “know about” something could be translated as “be aware of” or “be familiar with.”
• The expression “know how to” means to understand the process or method of getting something done. It could also be translated as “be able to” or “have the skill to.”
• The term “knowledge” could also be translated as “what is known” or “wisdom” or “understanding,” depending on the context.
• Some languages have two different words for “know,” one for knowing facts and one for knowing a person and having a relationship with that person. The word for knowing facts should be used when translating this sense of the word “know.”

(See also: know-relationship, law, reveal, understand, wise)

Bible References

Word Data

• Strong’s: H1844, H1847, H3045, H3046, H3318, G00500, G00560, G03190, G10970, G11070, G11080, G11100, G14920, G19210, G19220, G19870, G42670