ἔντευξις

a petition, prayer, intercession

Definition

The Greek word ἔντευξις (enteyxis) refers to a formal petition or request, specifically one made to a person of authority. In the New Testament, it carries the sense of prayer or intercession directed toward God. In 1 Timothy 2:1, it is used alongside other terms for prayer, emphasizing the act of making specific requests. In 1 Timothy 4:5, it describes prayer that sanctifies something, showing its role in consecration. Thus, it denotes a direct, intentional act of supplication.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both in the pastoral epistles (1 Timothy). In 1 Timothy 2:1, it appears in a list of prayer types ('supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings'), highlighting the comprehensive nature of communication with God. In 1 Timothy 4:5, it refers to prayer that sets apart food as holy, indicating its function in blessing and sanctification. Its usage is consistently in contexts of reverent appeal to divine authority.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐντυγχάνω (entynchanō), meaning 'to meet with, approach, or intercede.' This verb combines ἐν (en, 'in') with τυγχάνω (tynchanō, 'to hit a mark, obtain'). The root idea is of successfully approaching or gaining a hearing, often from a superior. Thus, ἔντευξις inherently conveys the notion of a direct, personal appeal made to one in a position to grant a request.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores the believer's direct access to God through prayer. It moves beyond general communication to specific, petitionary intercession. In 1 Timothy 2:1, its placement in a list underscores the multifaceted nature of prayer, while in 1 Timothy 4:5, it connects prayer with God's sanctifying work in the material world. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting prayer as a confident approach to a sovereign King who hears and acts.

In the Greco-Roman world, the term was used for formal petitions or audiences granted by rulers or officials. A person would make an 'enteyxis' to present a specific request directly to someone in authority. This cultural background illuminates its New Testament usage: prayer is not a vague wish but a respectful, direct appeal to the divine King. This contrasts with some modern, casual notions of prayer, restoring a sense of its solemnity and intentionality.

δέησις (deēsis, G1162) — a petition or supplication, often emphasizing need or want. προσευχή (proseuchē, G4335) — the general term for prayer, communication with God. ἱκετηρία (hikētēria, G2428) — a supplication or entreaty, sometimes with an emphasis on pleading.

Word Details

Scripture References