### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **diatíthemai**, represented by `{{G1303}}`, means to put apart, dispose of by assignment, compact, or bequest. It is translated as to **appoint**, **make**, or as a **testator**. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses**, highlighting its specific role in describing the establishment of binding agreements and appointments.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{G1303}}` is used to convey solemn, unilateral actions of divine authority. God is shown to **make** a new covenant with the house of Israel, promising to write His laws on their hearts and minds ([[Hebrews 8:10]], [[Hebrews 10:16]]). This same term describes the covenant God **made** with the fathers, specifically with Abraham [[Acts 3:25]]. In the Gospels, Jesus uses the word to **appoint** a kingdom to his followers, just as His Father had appointed one to Him [[Luke 22:29]]. The word also carries a legal meaning, referring to a **testator** whose death is required to enact a testament or will ([[Hebrews 9:16]], [[Hebrews 9:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of `{{G1303}}`:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant, testament): This word is derived from `{{G1303}}` and represents the contract or will itself. It is used to describe the new **testament** in Christ's blood [[Matthew 26:28]] and the "everlasting **covenant**" [[Hebrews 13:20]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb often describes the action that fulfills the covenant. In the covenant God **makes** `{{G1303}}`, He promises to **put** or give `{{G1325}}` His laws into their minds [[Hebrews 8:10]]. This word also describes God's ultimate act of **giving** his Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This refers to the content of God's covenant. The new covenant that God **makes** `{{G1303}}` involves placing his **laws** `{{G3551}}` into the hearts of his people [[Hebrews 8:10]]. This concept is expanded to include the **law** of Christ [[Galatians 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1303}}` is centered on the nature of God's binding commitments to humanity.
* **Divine Covenant-Making:** The word emphasizes God's sovereign power to initiate and establish a covenant. He is the one who **makes** the promise with Israel and the fathers, setting the terms unilaterally ([[Hebrews 8:10]], [[Acts 3:25]]).
* **Kingly Appointment:** It signifies Christ’s authority to delegate and establish his kingdom. He **appoints** a kingdom to believers, an action that mirrors the authority the Father bestowed upon him [[Luke 22:29]].
* **The Testament and the Testator:** The word provides a crucial legal framework for the new covenant. For the testament to be valid, the **testator** must die, which directly connects the efficacy of the new covenant to the death of Jesus Christ [[Hebrews 9:16-17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1303}}` is a precise term that defines the act of making a formal and binding disposition. It is not a word for mutual negotiation but for a sovereign act of **making** a covenant, **appointing** a kingdom, or establishing a will as a **testator**. This word is fundamental to understanding how God's promises are formally established and enacted through the work of Christ.
TRV