εἴσειμι

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word eíseimi, represented by G1524, means to enter or go into. It is derived from the words G1519 (eis), meaning "to or into," and a word meaning "to go." It appears a total of 4 times in 4 unique verses, indicating a very specific application in scripture.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The use of G1524 consistently refers to a physical act of entering a location for a specific, often religious, purpose. In Acts, Paul is described as having entered G1524 into the temple G2411 to fulfill the days of purification Acts 21:26. Similarly, Peter G4074 and John G2491 were about to go G1524 into the temple G2411 when they were approached for alms Acts 3:3. The word is also used to describe Paul went in G1524 to meet with James G2385 and the elders G4245 Acts 21:18. In Hebrews, it describes the ceremonial duty of the priests who went G1524 always into the first tabernacle G4633 to accomplish their service Hebrews 9:6.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the context of entering a place:

• G1519 eis (to or into): This preposition is a foundational part of eíseimi and frequently appears with it to specify the destination of the action, such as going into the temple Acts 3:3 or into the first tabernacle Hebrews 9:6.
• G2411 hierón (temple): This word denotes the sacred place that is the destination of the act of entering in half of the occurrences of G1524 (Acts 3:3, Acts 21:26).
• G4633 skēnḗ (tabernacle): This term serves as the destination for the priestly duty described in Hebrews 9:6, highlighting the ceremonial nature of the entry.
• G3854 paragínomai (to come, go, be present): This word appears in a parallel action, where as Paul went in G1524, the elders were present G3854, connecting the act of entry with the state of being present for a meeting Acts 21:18.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1524 is tied to the purpose and location of the entry.

• Entering Sacred Space: The word is predominantly used for the physical act of crossing the threshold into a place of worship like the Temple or the Tabernacle. This act signifies a move from a common space into a consecrated one for a divine purpose.
• Initiating Worship and Ritual: Entry is the precursor to a religious act. Paul entered G1524 to begin the final stage of a purification vow Acts 21:26, and priests went G1524 into the tabernacle for the "accomplishing the service of God" Hebrews 9:6.
• Access to Spiritual Authority: The act of entering is also shown as the way to access community leadership. Paul went in G1524 specifically to meet with James and the elders, showing it as a formal approach to the church's authorities Acts 21:18.

Summary

In summary, G1524 is a precise term that describes more than simple movement. It signifies a deliberate and purposeful act of entering a specific place, usually one of religious or communal importance. The word marks the physical transition required to engage in worship, fulfill ceremonial duties, and meet with spiritual leaders, making it a key action that initiates significant biblical events.