ἔνταλμα

an injunction, ordinance, precept

Definition

ἔνταλμα refers to a formal injunction, ordinance, or precept, often carrying the sense of a commanded rule or regulation. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes human religious commandments, particularly those of a ceremonial or traditional nature. In Matthew 15:9 and Mark 7:7, Jesus quotes Isaiah, criticizing those who teach 'the precepts (ἐντάλματα) of men' as opposed to God's commands. In Colossians 2:22, Paul uses it to describe human-made regulations concerning physical purity, which he contrasts with spiritual reality in Christ.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in contexts that critique human religious traditions. All three occurrences (Matthew 15:9, Mark 7:7, Colossians 2:22) appear in polemical passages where Jesus or Paul contrasts man-made religious rules with the true will or commandment of God. It is never used positively for divine law.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐντελλομαι (entellomai, G1781), meaning 'to command' or 'to enjoin.' It is a compound word from the preposition ἐν (en, 'in') and a root related to setting or ordering. The noun form emphasizes the thing that is commanded—the ordinance or precept itself.

Semantic Range

ἔνταλμα is theologically significant because it highlights a key point of contention in the Gospels and Epistles: the conflict between human religious tradition and divine authority. Understanding this Greek term helps readers identify when the New Testament is specifically criticizing man-made rules (ἐντάλματα) versus upholding God's commandments (ἐντολαί). It underscores the biblical theme that external, human regulations cannot achieve righteousness, which comes only through faith in Christ.

In first-century Jewish culture, 'the tradition of the elders' (a body of oral interpretations and applications of the Law) held great authority. Jesus and Paul's use of ἔνταλμα to describe these rules often placed them in direct opposition to this established religious system, challenging the source and validity of these human injunctions.

ἐντολή (entolē, G1785) — A commandment, typically used for divine commands (e.g., the Ten Commandments). δικαίωμα (dikaiōma, G1345) — An ordinance or regulation, often with a focus on what is just or righteous; can refer to divine decrees or legal requirements.

Word Details

Scripture References