The Greek word diátagma, represented by G1297, refers to an authoritative edict or commandment. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The word stems from a root meaning 'an arrangement,' highlighting its nature as a formally established decree.
In its sole biblical appearance, G1297 describes the royal decree that Moses's parents defied. By faith, they hid their infant son for three months because they saw he was a proper child and were "not afraid of the king's commandment" Hebrews 11:23. This act places faith in God in direct opposition to a powerful human edict.
Several related words from its context help to clarify the significance of this edict:
- G4102 pístis (faith): This is the stated motivation for defying the commandment. It is defined as persuasion or moral conviction and is described as the substance of things hoped for Hebrews 11:1.
- G935 basileús (king): This identifies the source of the edict as a sovereign. The term is used for earthly rulers like Herod Matthew 2:1, but also for the ultimate "King of saints" Revelation 15:3.
- G5399 phobéō (to be afraid): The parents' reaction to the edict was not to be alarmed. Their lack of fear contrasts with the call to fear him who has power over the soul Matthew 10:28, implying their reverence was directed toward a higher authority.
The theological weight of G1297 is centered on the conflict between human law and divine will.
- Faith Over Fear: The story of Moses's parents demonstrates that faith G4102 in God can negate the fear G5399 of a human king's G935 commandment. This act shows that faith is the foundation for courage in the face of threatening earthly powers Hebrews 13:6.
- Conflicting Kingdoms: The king's commandment represents the authority of an earthly kingdom. However, scripture points to a higher authority, calling Jesus the "prince of the kings of the earth" Revelation 1:5. The parents' choice honored the unseen King over the seen one.
- Obedience to God's Purpose: By defying the edict, Moses's parents acted in alignment with God's purpose. Their faith preserved the child Moses G3475, the future lawgiver of Israel through whom God's law would be given John 1:17.
In summary, while G1297 is a rare word, its single use is pivotal. It represents a powerful human edict that was rendered powerless by the faith of believers. The defiance of this "commandment" illustrates a core biblical theme: true allegiance belongs to God, and faith provides the courage to act on that conviction, even when it opposes the highest worldly authorities.
TRV