διαστέλλομαι

I give a commission, order

Definition

The verb διαστέλλομαι primarily means 'to give a command, order, or instruction,' often with a sense of strictness or urgency. In the Gospels, it frequently describes Jesus giving a direct, emphatic command, such as when he orders people not to tell others about a miracle (Mark 5:43, 7:36) or warns his disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees (Mark 8:15). In Acts 15:24, it is used for the authoritative decree sent from the Jerusalem council. In Hebrews 12:20, the sense shifts slightly to a stern warning or prohibition, referencing the command at Mount Sinai that even an animal touching the mountain must be stoned.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used seven times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels of Mark (four times) and Matthew (once). Its usage consistently involves a figure of authority (Jesus or the Jerusalem council) issuing a strong, often private, command or warning. In Mark, it is repeatedly linked to Jesus' commands for silence about his miracles and identity (the 'Messianic Secret'), as seen in Mark 5:43, 7:36, and 9:9. The single use in Acts (15:24) formalizes this sense into an official ecclesiastical decree.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition διά (dia), meaning 'through' or 'thoroughly,' and the verb στέλλομαι (stellomai), which means 'to set, arrange, or send.' The compound thus carries the idea of arranging or commanding something thoroughly or with clear distinction. It implies a command that sets boundaries or gives specific, unambiguous instructions.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the authority of Jesus and the early church. Jesus' repeated use of διαστέλλομαι underscores his control over the revelation of his identity and mission, a key theme in Mark's Gospel. It also illustrates the nature of divine and apostolic commands—not as suggestions, but as authoritative instructions that require obedience. Understanding this term enriches reading by emphasizing the weight and intentionality behind Jesus' specific directives.

In the Greco-Roman world, commands from a recognized authority (a teacher, benefactor, or official body) carried significant social weight and were expected to be followed. The use of this strong verb by Jesus and the apostles would have been understood by first-century audiences as a clear exercise of legitimate authority, not merely a strong request.

ἐντέλλομαι (entellomai, G1781) — Often a more formal command, like a charge or injunction. παραγγέλλω (parangellō, G3853) — To command, order, or announce, often with a sense of passing along an instruction.

Word Details

Scripture References