ἐντυπόω

I engrave

Definition

The verb ἐντυπόω means to engrave, carve, or imprint something into a surface, creating a permanent or deeply impressed mark. In its only New Testament occurrence, it describes the engraving of letters on stone tablets, specifically referencing the Mosaic Law (2 Corinthians 3:7). While its core meaning is physical engraving, the context implies a sense of permanence and indelible marking. There are no other biblical passages where the meaning differs, as it is used only once.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 3:7. Paul employs it to describe the ministry of death, the Mosaic Law, which was 'engraved in letters on stone.' The usage is entirely historical and descriptive, referring to the physical tablets of the Ten Commandments. There are no patterns of usage across different books or contexts.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν (en, meaning 'in') and the verb τύπος (typos, meaning 'mark, impression, form'). The related verb τυπόω (typoō) means 'to strike' or 'to impress.' Thus, ἐντυπόω literally means 'to strike in' or 'to impress upon,' vividly conveying the action of carving letters into a hard material like stone.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the contrast between the old and new covenants. Paul uses the imagery of letters 'engraved on stone' (2 Corinthians 3:7) to symbolize the Law's permanence, glory, and ministry of condemnation, which was nevertheless fading. This sets the stage for his argument about the superior, life-giving ministry of the Spirit under the new covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6-11). Understanding this engraving emphasizes the Law's fixed, external nature compared to the internal work of the Spirit written on human hearts.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, important public decrees, laws, and memorials were often permanently inscribed on stone or metal to ensure their durability and public display. The 'engraving' of the Mosaic Law on stone tablets (Exodus 31:18) fits this cultural practice, signifying its divine authority, unchangeability, and intended permanence as a national covenant document. The modern concept of 'writing' lacks this connotation of monumental, public permanence.

γράφω (graphō, G1125) — a general term for writing or recording, not specifying the method or material. χαράσσω (charassō, G5480) — to scratch, engrave, or inscribe, often on a hard surface; can imply marking or branding.

Word Details

Scripture References