ἐντολή

an ordinance, injunction, command

Definition

ἐντολή refers to a command, order, or injunction, often with a sense of formal authority. In the New Testament, it most commonly denotes the commandments of God, especially those given in the Mosaic Law (e.g., Matthew 19:17-19). It can also refer to the teachings and instructions of Jesus, presenting his words as having divine authority (e.g., John 13:34, 15:12). In some contexts, it contrasts human traditions with God's genuine commands (Mark 7:8-9). The word encapsulates the concept of a binding directive from a superior, whether divine or human.

Biblical Usage

ἐντολή appears frequently in the Gospels (especially Matthew, John) and the Pauline epistles. In the Gospels, it is central to discussions about the Law, as Jesus reinterprets and fulfills God's commands (Matthew 22:36-40). In John's writings, it emphasizes Jesus' new commandment of love (John 15:12). Paul uses it to discuss the purpose and limits of the Mosaic Law (Romans 7:8-13; 1 Corinthians 7:19). The usage consistently highlights the source (divine or Christological) and authority of the command.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐντέλλομαι (entellomai, G1781), meaning 'to command, order, or enjoin.' It is a compound of ἐν (en, 'in') and the root related to telling or ordering. The noun form emphasizes the thing that is commanded—the ordinance or injunction itself. Its meaning developed from a general 'order' to specifically denote the authoritative commands of God in biblical Greek.

Semantic Range

ἐντολή is theologically significant as it connects the Law of the Old Testament with the teachings of Jesus. Understanding this Greek term enriches Bible reading by clarifying debates in the Gospels about 'the commandments'—showing Jesus both upholding their intent (Matthew 5:19) and transcending them with his 'new commandment' of love (John 13:34). It is key to doctrines of law, grace, and Christian ethics, highlighting the continuity and fulfillment of God's will in Christ.

In a first-century Jewish context, 'commandments' primarily referred to the 613 mitzvot of the Torah. For Greek-speaking Jews and early Christians, ἐντολή carried this loaded cultural meaning of God's revealed law. Jesus' audience would have immediately associated the word with the Mosaic Law, making his teachings and redefinitions (e.g., prioritizing love in Matthew 22:38-40) culturally provocative.

νόμος (nomos, G3551) — broader term for 'law,' often the entire Mosaic Law or principle, whereas ἐντολή is a specific command within it. δικαίωμα (dikaiōma, G1345) — an ordinance or regulation, often with a focus on righteous requirement. πρόσταγμα (prostagma, G1292) — a command or injunction, but used less frequently for divine commands.

Word Details

Scripture References