εἴσειμι

I go in, enter

Definition

The verb εἴσειμι means 'to go in' or 'to enter.' It specifically denotes the physical action of moving into a space, such as entering a building or a defined area. In its four New Testament occurrences, it consistently refers to entering the Jerusalem temple precincts (Acts 3:3, 21:18, 21:26; Hebrews 9:6). The word carries a sense of purposeful movement into a significant location, often in the context of religious activity or ritual.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in contexts describing entry into the temple in Jerusalem. In Acts, it describes people (like Peter and John, or Paul) entering the temple area for prayer, almsgiving, or purification rites (Acts 3:3, 21:18, 21:26). In Hebrews 9:6, it is used in a summary of the Old Testament priestly ritual, stating that the priests regularly 'enter' the outer tabernacle to perform their service. The usage is geographically and ritually specific.

Etymology

Eἴσειμι is a compound verb formed from the preposition εἰς (eis), meaning 'into' or 'to,' and the verb εἶμι (eimi), an older form meaning 'I go' or 'I shall go.' Literally, it means 'I go into.' This construction emphasizes the direction of the movement (into) rather than just the act of going.

Semantic Range

While primarily a verb of physical motion, its exclusive association with entering the temple in the New Testament gives it theological weight. It connects to themes of access to God's presence, worship, and the old covenant system of ritual. In Hebrews 9, its use highlights the limited access under the old system, setting up the contrast with Christ's unique and perfect entry into the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:11-12, 24). Understanding this specific usage clarifies the ritual and geographical setting of key narratives in Acts.

In the 1st-century Jewish context, 'entering the temple' was not a casual act. The temple complex had defined boundaries (like the Court of the Gentiles), and access was restricted based on purity, ethnicity, and gender. Using εἴσειμι for this action underscores the formal, purposeful, and often ritual nature of crossing that threshold, which would be immediately understood by the original audience.

εἰσέρχομαι (eiserchomai, G1525) — A more common, general verb for 'entering' used for all kinds of spaces and metaphorical entry. εἴσειμι is a more specific, formal, or literary variant often tied to temple entry.

Word Details

Scripture References