Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is crucial for uncovering the nuanced meanings and cultural contexts that underpin scripture. The Greek word ἔννομος (ennómos) is particularly significant because it denotes someone or something that is “within the law” or “law-abiding.” This term is relevant for New Testament interpretation as it helps to illuminate discussions on legalism, morality, and the adherence to religious or civil laws. It also provides insight into how ancient Greek culture perceived order, justice, and legal conformity.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἔννομος (ennómos) [EN-no-mos]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐν (en, “in”) + νόμος (nomos, “law”), meaning “within the law” or “conforming to the law.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective. It follows the second declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Lawful — in accordance with or permitted by the law.
• Legal — pertaining to the law or following the legal code.
• Law-abiding — conforming to or respecting the law.

Similar Words: νόμιμος (nómimos) [NO-mee-mos] also means “legal” or “lawful,” but it emphasizes the legitimacy or validity within the context of legal standards. ἄνομος (ánomos) [AH-no-mos] means “lawless” or “without law,” serving as the opposite of ἔννομος, which signifies conformity to legal norms.

Further Insights: ἔννομος is an adjective that indicates being “within the law.” It follows the second declension pattern, which is typical for adjectives ending in -ος. This adjective can modify both masculine and feminine nouns, and it appears in different forms based on case, gender, and number.

Declension of ἔννομος

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἔννομος is defined as “lawful” or “legal,” describing someone who conforms to or operates within the boundaries of established law. It can refer to both civil and religious laws, and is used to describe behavior or practices that align with legal or moral expectations.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon highlights ἔννομος as “in-law” or “legal.” It is often used in contexts where someone or something is explicitly contrasted with being outside or against the law, providing a clear demarcation between lawful and unlawful behavior.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words explains ἔννομος as “conforming to law” or “law-abiding.” It emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal standards and is commonly found in passages that deal with issues of morality, legality, and righteousness.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon provides examples of ἔννομος from classical literature, noting its use in describing actions, people, or communities that adhere to laws and societal norms. The term is used in both legal and ethical contexts to express conformity.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἔννομος as “within the law” or “lawful.” It points out its frequent application in New Testament passages where legal adherence or alignment with moral standards is emphasized, often in contrast to lawlessness.

Classical Usage

Summary of ἔννομος (G1772: ennómos)

ἔννομος (ennómos) is a Greek adjective meaning “lawful,” “legal,” or “law-abiding.” It is significant for understanding New Testament passages that discuss legal adherence, morality, and righteousness. The term conveys a strong sense of conformity to established norms, whether they are civil or religious laws, and helps to distinguish between lawful and lawless behavior. In classical Greek literature, it is used to describe both individuals and communities that operate within the bounds of the law.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek society, being ἔννομος was not just about obeying the law but also about embodying the principles and values that the law was meant to uphold. This concept extended to both civil society and religious communities, where laws were seen as reflections of divine will or ethical norms. The New Testament’s use of ἔννομος often reflects this duality, emphasizing both legal adherence and the moral integrity that comes with it.