Brief Overview of ἐντέλλομαι (Strong’s G1781: entéllomai)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential for delving deeper into Biblical studies and interpreting the New Testament more accurately. The Greek word ἐντέλλομαι (entéllomai) is particularly significant because it means “to command” or “to give orders.” This verb appears in contexts where authoritative instructions or directives are given, often by a higher authority. Exploring ἐντέλλομαι offers valuable insights into the concept of divine commandments, authority, and obedience in both ancient Greek culture and early Christian teachings.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐντέλλομαι (entéllomai) [en-TEL-loh-my]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐν (en, “in”) + τέλλω (tellō, “to accomplish” or “to order”), combining to mean “to give orders” or “to command.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. It follows the middle voice conjugation patterns in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To command — to give an authoritative order or directive.
• To instruct — to provide detailed instructions or guidance.
• To charge — to impose a duty or responsibility upon someone.

Similar Words: κελεύω (keleuō) [ke-LEY-oh] also means “to command” or “to bid,” but it often emphasizes urging or encouraging action. διατάσσω (diatássō) [di-a-TAS-so] means “to arrange” or “to appoint,” often referring to establishing an order or rule. In contrast, ἐντέλλομαι focuses on direct orders or commands, especially those that carry a sense of obligation or duty.

Further Insights: ἐντέλλομαι is a verb that appears in the middle voice, which in Greek often implies that the subject performs an action that has a reflexive or self-directed emphasis. This verb is associated with the giving of commands that are expected to be followed, reflecting both the authority of the one giving the command and the obligation of the one receiving it. The conjugation follows standard Greek patterns for middle voice verbs.

Conjugation of ἐντέλλομαι

As a verb, ἐντέλλομαι does not have a declension table, but its conjugation varies according to tense, voice, and mood. Here is an example in the present middle/passive indicative:

Lexicon Insights

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BDAG: ἐντέλλομαι is defined as “to command” or “to give orders.” The lexicon notes its usage in contexts where commands are given with authority, often by a higher or divine authority, and it carries a strong sense of obligation.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐντέλλομαι as “to enjoin” or “to give a command,” emphasizing the imperative nature of the instructions given. It is often used in the New Testament to refer to commands given by God, Christ, or other authoritative figures.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words explains ἐντέλλομαι as “to command” or “to charge.” It highlights its use in passages that discuss divine commandments, where adherence to the command is expected as an act of obedience.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon provides a broader definition of ἐντέλλομαι as “to command” or “to give orders,” noting its use in various Greek literary works to describe the act of giving commands that are meant to be followed.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἐντέλλομαι as “to enjoin” or “to charge,” emphasizing the binding nature of the orders given. It highlights the term’s frequent application in contexts where instructions or decrees are passed down with authority.

Scripture References

• Matthew 4:6 – “And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge (ἐντέλλομαι) concerning thee.”
• Mark 10:3 – “And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command (ἐντέλλομαι) you?”
• Acts 1:2 – “Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments (ἐντέλλομαι) unto the apostles whom he had chosen.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐντέλλομαι (G1781: entéllomai)

ἐντέλλομαι (entéllomai) is a Greek verb meaning “to command,” “to instruct,” or “to charge.” It is significant in Biblical contexts for describing the act of giving authoritative orders, often with an expectation of obedience. This word is used in passages where commands are given by God, Christ, or other authoritative figures, emphasizing the importance of following divine or moral directives. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, ἐντέλλομαι reflects the importance of authority and the binding nature of commands.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek and early Christian contexts, the concept of ἐντέλλομαι went beyond mere instruction; it carried the weight of obligation and authority. Commands given by higher authorities, such as kings or gods, were not just suggestions but binding orders that defined relationships, responsibilities, and duties within the community. In the New Testament, ἐντέλλομαι often reflects the authoritative nature of Jesus’ teachings and the divine commands expected to be followed by believers.