### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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