Introduction

Understanding Greek words is fundamental in Biblical studies as it helps clarify the meanings behind key terms used in scripture. The Greek word ἐντολή (entolē) is particularly significant because it means “commandment” or “instruction.” This noun appears frequently in the New Testament to describe divine commandments or teachings given by Jesus and the apostles. Studying ἐντολή sheds light on the relationship between God’s will and human obedience, as well as the ethical and spiritual guidelines that shaped early Christian communities.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐντολή (entolē) [en-to-LAY]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings: Derived from ἐν (en, “in”) + τέλλω (tellō, “to order” or “to command”), combining to mean “an order” or “command.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine. It follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Commandment — a directive or order, particularly from a divine authority.
• Instruction — a guideline or teaching to be followed.
• Order — an authoritative rule or decree that must be obeyed.

Similar Words: νόμος (nomos) [NO-mos] also means “law” but often refers to the broader legal framework or Mosaic Law, rather than specific commandments. παραγγελία (parangelia) [pa-ran-ge-LI-a] translates to “instruction” or “command” but can imply a military or official order. In contrast, ἐντολή focuses more on divine or moral commandments that guide ethical and spiritual behavior.

Further Insights: ἐντολή is a feminine noun that emphasizes the concept of an authoritative directive or command. As a first-declension noun, it has a relatively regular declension pattern and is frequently used in both religious and secular texts to denote commands that require adherence.

Declension of ἐντολή

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἐντολή is defined as “commandment” or “order,” used primarily in contexts that convey divine directives, especially those given by God or Christ. The lexicon highlights its significance in ethical and moral instructions that are meant to be adhered to by believers.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐντολή as “an order, command, charge, precept.” It emphasizes the word’s use in the New Testament to refer to the commandments of God or Jesus, which are central to Christian ethical teachings.

Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words explains ἐντολή as “commandment,” especially in passages that discuss the adherence to God’s laws or Christ’s teachings. It underscores the importance of this term in defining the responsibilities and duties of believers.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon provides a broader definition of ἐντολή as “command” or “order,” noting its use in various Greek texts to describe directives issued by an authority, whether divine, legal, or military.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἐντολή as “an injunction” or “commandment,” pointing out its frequent use in both religious and secular contexts where authoritative commands are involved.

Scripture References

• Matthew 22:36 – “Master, which is the great commandment (ἐντολή) in the law?”
• John 14:15 – “If ye love me, keep my commandments (ἐντολαί).”
• 1 John 3:23 – “And this is his commandment (ἐντολή), That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment (ἐντολή).”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐντολή (G1785: entolē)

ἐντολή (entolē) is a Greek noun meaning “commandment,” “instruction,” or “order.” It is significant in Biblical contexts for describing divine directives, especially those given by God or Jesus, which serve as ethical and spiritual guidelines for believers. This word appears in passages where obedience, adherence, and faithfulness to divine commandments are emphasized. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, ἐντολή reflects the importance of authoritative commands and the expectation of compliance within various contexts, whether religious, legal, or military.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek and early Christian contexts, the concept of ἐντολή was not limited to religious instruction but was also used in legal and military settings to signify commands that required obedience. In the New Testament, the term ἐντολή carries a profound theological weight, especially in the teachings of Jesus, where love for God and neighbor is presented as the fulfillment of divine commandments. This highlights the relational and ethical dimensions of obedience within the early Christian faith.