εἰσέρχομαι

I go in, come in, enter

Definition

The verb εἰσέρχομαι primarily means 'to go in, come in, or enter' a physical space, such as entering a house (Matthew 8:5) or a city (Matthew 10:5). It also carries a significant metaphorical sense of entering into a state, condition, or relationship, most notably entering the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:20; 7:21). In some contexts, it implies a deeper, more permanent entrance, as in entering into life (Matthew 18:8) or entering through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13).

Biblical Usage

This common verb appears throughout the New Testament, with high frequency in the Gospels and Acts, often describing physical movement into locations like homes, synagogues, or regions. A major thematic usage is spiritual: entering the kingdom of God or heaven (e.g., Matthew 5:20; 7:21; John 3:5), entering into life, or entering through a gate (Matthew 7:13). It is also used for entering into prayer (Matthew 6:6) and, in a negative sense, for Satan entering Judas (Luke 22:3).

Etymology

A compound word formed from the preposition εἰς (eis, G1519), meaning 'into' or 'to,' and the common verb ἔρχομαι (erchomai, G2064), meaning 'to come' or 'to go.' The combination intensifies the sense of motion toward the inside of something. Its meaning is straightforward, directly reflecting its component parts.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it is central to the concept of entering God's kingdom, a core theme of Jesus's teaching. It underscores that salvation and eternal life are not merely about proximity but about a decisive, personal entrance into a new realm or relationship with God (John 10:9; Matthew 7:13-14). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the active, intentional movement required in response to the gospel.

In a culture with strong distinctions between public and private space, and with significant spiritual importance placed on thresholds (e.g., of temples, homes), the act of 'entering' carried weight. Entering a house often implied hospitality and fellowship, while entering the temple implied approaching God's presence. This cultural backdrop adds depth to its metaphorical use for entering God's kingdom or presence.

εἰσπορεύομαι (eisporeuomai, G1531) — a near synonym, also meaning 'to go in,' but sometimes with a nuance of passing through or traveling into. παρεισέρχομαι (pareiserchomai, G3922) — to enter in alongside, slip in secretly (Galatians 2:4).

Word Details

Scripture References