middle voice from διά and στέλλω; to set (oneself) apart (figuratively, distinguish), i.e. (by implication) to enjoin:--charge, that which was (give) commanded(-ment).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diastéllomai**, represented by `{{G1291}}`, is a verb used to convey a strong charge or command. It appears 9 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition is to set oneself apart, and by implication, to enjoin or give a commandment. This term is consistently used to express a direct and forceful instruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G1291}}` is frequently used by Jesus to issue specific commands, often demanding secrecy. After raising a girl from the dead, He **charged** them straitly that no man should know it [[Mark 5:43]]. Similarly, He **charged** His disciples that they should tell no man that He was Jesus the Christ [[Matthew 16:20]]. This pattern of commanding silence is also seen after the transfiguration, where He **charged** them to tell no man what they had seen until the Son of man were risen from the dead [[Mark 9:9]]. The term also functions as a stern warning, as when Jesus **charged** his followers to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod [[Mark 8:15]]. In Acts, it is used to clarify authority, stating that the apostles gave no such **commandment** to Gentiles regarding circumcision [[Acts 15:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of the commands given or disobeyed:
* `{{G2036}}` **épō** (to speak or say): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G1291}}` to show the content of a command. For instance, Jesus **charged** them and **commanded** that something should be given to the girl to eat [[Mark 5:43]].
* `{{G1334}}` **diēgéomai** (to relate fully): This describes the action forbidden by a `{{G1291}}` charge. Jesus **charged** the disciples that they should **tell** no man what they had seen on the mountain [[Mark 9:9]].
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald or proclaim): This verb highlights the response to a command from `{{G1291}}`. The more Jesus **charged** people not to speak of a healing, the more a great deal they **published** it [[Mark 7:36]].
* `{{G5083}}` **tēréō** (to guard or keep): This term is used to describe the substance of a false teaching that the apostles explicitly state they did not command. The Judaizers troubled the church by saying they must **keep** the law, a directive the apostles never gave [[Acts 15:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1291}}` is seen in its function as a vehicle for divine authority and instruction.
* **Authoritative Command:** The word is consistently used to show Jesus issuing a direct and forceful "charge," underscoring his authority over people, circumstances, and the timing of revelation ([[Matthew 16:20]], [[Mark 8:15]]).
* **Controlled Revelation:** A primary theme associated with `{{G1291}}` is Jesus's strategic commanding of silence regarding his miracles and identity, ensuring his mission unfolded according to a divine timetable ([[Mark 5:43]], [[Mark 9:9]]).
* **Doctrinal Correction:** It plays a key role in establishing correct doctrine. The apostles use it to disavow false teachings that were troubling and subverting the souls of believers in Antioch [[Acts 15:24]].
* **The Weight of God's Law:** In Hebrews, the word refers to the terrifying **commandment** at Mount Sinai which the people could not endure, illustrating the awesome and unapproachable nature of the Old Covenant law [[Hebrews 12:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1291}}` is more than just a word for "command." It signifies a specific, authoritative charge intended to direct, warn, or prohibit. It is crucial for understanding Jesus's method of ministry, the establishment of early church doctrine, and the profound difference between the Old and New Covenants. The use of this term highlights moments of critical instruction and divine authority throughout the New Testament.
TRV