ἐπιτάσσω

I give order, command

Definition

ἐπιτάσσω means to give an authoritative command or order, often implying a position of authority over someone or something. In the New Testament, it is used for commands given by Jesus over nature (Mark 4:39, Luke 8:25) and demons (Mark 1:27, Luke 4:36), demonstrating His divine authority. It also describes orders given by human authorities, such as Herod commanding John the Baptist's execution (Mark 6:27) or a master instructing a servant (Luke 14:22). The word carries a sense of imposed direction, not merely a request.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears 10 times, primarily in the Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Luke). It is used in contexts of commanding spiritual forces (demons in Mark 9:25), natural elements (wind and waves in Luke 8:25), and people (servants in Luke 14:22). A key pattern is its association with Jesus's miraculous authority, contrasting with human political authority like Herod's (Mark 6:27).

Etymology

Derived from ἐπί (epi, meaning 'upon' or 'over') and τάσσω (tassō, meaning 'to arrange' or 'to appoint'). The compound emphasizes commanding 'over' someone, adding a sense of superior authority to the basic idea of arranging or directing. Cognates include words like διάταγμα (diagramma, 'decree') and ὑποτάσσω (hypotassō, 'to subject').

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the nature of Jesus's authority. When Jesus ἐπιτάσσω the wind, waves, or demons (e.g., Mark 4:39, Luke 4:36), it reveals His sovereign command over all creation and spiritual realms, affirming His divinity. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying that these are not suggestions but authoritative decrees from the Lord of all.

In the Greco-Roman world, ἐπιτάσσω was used for military orders and commands from those in superior social or political positions (like masters, kings, or officials). This cultural backdrop makes Jesus's use of the term over nature and demons especially striking—He commands not as a human official but as the ultimate authority over all realms.

κελεύω (keleuō, G2753) — a more general term for commanding, often less authoritative. παραγγέλλω (parangellō, G3853) — to charge or instruct, often with a sense of passing along an order. λέγω (legō, G3004) — a very common verb 'to say,' which can include commands but lacks the inherent authority of ἐπιτάσσω.

Word Details

Scripture References