Brief Overview of ἔνταλμα (Strong’s G1778: entalma)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies as it allows for a deeper comprehension of the scriptures’ meanings and contexts. The Greek word ἔνταλμα (entalma) is particularly significant because it means “commandment” or “instruction.” This noun appears in the New Testament to refer to commandments, often with a connotation of something imposed or a decree. Studying ἔνταλμα helps illuminate how early Christians and ancient Greek culture viewed authority, religious law, and the importance of obedience to established directives.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἔνταλμα (entalma) [EN-tal-mah]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐντέλλω (entellō, “to enjoin” or “to command”) + the suffix -μα (-ma), which forms nouns indicating the result of an action, meaning “a command” or “an injunction.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, neuter. It follows the third declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Commandment — a directive or order that must be followed.
• Instruction — guidance or rules that are given, often authoritative or binding.
• Precept — a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought.

Similar Words: ἐντολή (entolē) [en-to-LAY] also means “commandment” or “order,” but it is more commonly used in the New Testament, particularly for divine commandments. δόγμα (dogma) [DOG-mah] refers to a “decree” or “ordinance,” often used in a broader legal or authoritative context. While ἔνταλμα refers to a commandment or rule, it often implies something imposed with a binding nature rather than a more divine or moral sense.

Further Insights: ἔνταλμα is a neuter noun following the third declension pattern. It appears in contexts where there is a need to emphasize the formal or obligatory nature of a command or instruction. It is commonly used in both religious and legal settings to denote rules or decrees that require compliance.

Declension of ἔνταλμα

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἔνταλμα is defined as “a commandment” or “an injunction.” The lexicon notes its usage in contexts where an authoritative command is given and is to be followed as an order, whether in religious or civil contexts.

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Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἔνταλμα as “a command” or “a precept,” emphasizing the aspect of being an imposed directive. It often refers to the commandments given by authorities or leaders that are expected to be observed.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words explains ἔνταλμα as “a commandment,” used particularly to denote a formal order or rule. It stresses the binding nature of these commands, highlighting their role in guiding behavior and practice.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon provides a broader definition of ἔνταλμα as “an injunction” or “commandment,” mentioning its use in various Greek texts to describe orders or directives that must be followed, often with legal or authoritative force.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἔνταλμα as “commandment” or “injunction.” It emphasizes the term’s application in settings where rules or decrees are given that require adherence, highlighting its authoritative undertones.

Scripture References

• Colossians 2:22 – “Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments (ἔνταλμα) and doctrines of men.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἔνταλμα (G1778: entalma)

ἔνταλμα (entalma) is a Greek noun meaning “commandment,” “instruction,” or “precept.” It is significant in Biblical contexts for describing authoritative directives that are often imposed and meant to be followed. This term is used to convey the idea of binding rules or laws, whether religious or civil. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, ἔνταλμα is used to express the importance of obedience to established authority and the implications of these commands on personal and communal behavior.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek and early Christian contexts, the term ἔνταλμα was often used to describe not just religious or legal commands but also societal expectations that were meant to guide people’s behavior. It reflects how both Greek and Jewish traditions placed high value on adhering to commandments as a way of maintaining order, justice, and piety within a community.