from ἔννομος and δύνω; to sink (by implication, wrap (compare ἐνδύω) on, i.e. (figuratively) sneak:--creep.
Transliteration:endýnō
Pronunciation:en-doo'-no
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1744}}` (endýnō) is derived from ἔννομος (en-nomos, "in law" or "lawful") and δύνω (dyno, "to sink" or "to set," as in the sun). While the etymological components might suggest a lawful entry or a sinking motion, the base definition provided points to a figurative meaning: "to sink (by implication, wrap... on, i.e. (figuratively) sneak:--creep." This indicates a movement characterized by stealth, subtlety, or insidious penetration. The comparison to `{{G1746}}` (endyō), which means "to put on" or "clothe," suggests a similar sense of entering or covering, but `{{G1744}}` specifically emphasizes the surreptitious *manner* of entry rather than merely the act of donning. Its semantic range is narrow, primarily conveying the idea of a clandestine or deceptive infiltration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1744}}` appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[2 Timothy 3:6]]. In this passage, Paul warns Timothy about the characteristics of people in the "last days" who will be "lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy..." (cf. [[2 Timothy 3:2-5]]). It is within this description of moral decay and spiritual danger that `{{G1744}}` is used: "For of this sort are those who *creep* into houses and captivate silly women loaded down with sins, led away by various desires."
The context is crucial. The individuals described do not openly confront or attack, but rather "creep" (ἐνδύνω) into private spaces ("houses"). This word choice highlights their deceptive and insidious nature. They exploit the vulnerability of "silly women" (γυναικάρια, a diminutive often implying weakness or lack of discernment), who are further described as "loaded down with sins" and "led away by various desires." The purpose of their stealthy entry is to "captivate" (αἰχμαλωτίζω, to take captive) these women, indicating a spiritual or psychological enslavement. The single, potent use of `{{G1744}}` thus paints a vivid picture of a predatory, manipulative, and hidden danger within the community, targeting the susceptible.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G1744}}` is directly related to its root verb `{{G1416}}` (δύνω, dyno), which means "to sink" or "to enter." The prefix ἐν- (en-) signifies "in" or "into," reinforcing the idea of entering or penetrating. The explicit comparison in the lexicon to `{{G1746}}` (ἐνδύω, endyō, "to put on, clothe oneself") is noteworthy. While `{{G1746}}` often describes the positive act of "putting on" Christ or spiritual virtues (e.g., [[Romans 13:14]], [[Ephesians 4:24]]), `{{G1744}}` carries a negative connotation, emphasizing the *manner* of entry as stealthy and insidious.
Concepts closely associated with `{{G1744}}` include:
* **Deception and Manipulation:** The act of "creeping" implies a hidden agenda and a goal of exploitation.
* **Infiltration:** These individuals do not operate openly but secretly penetrate vulnerable spaces.
* **Spiritual Danger:** The context of [[2 Timothy 3]] speaks to the perils of false teachers and those who would lead believers astray.
* **Vulnerability:** The targeting of "silly women" highlights the susceptibility of certain individuals to such insidious tactics.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{G1744}}` in [[2 Timothy 3:6]] carries profound theological weight, serving as a solemn warning for the church. It underscores the insidious nature of spiritual corruption and false teaching. Unlike overt persecution or direct theological attacks, the danger described by `{{G1744}}` is subtle and clandestine. Those who "creep in" do not announce their malevolent intentions; rather, they infiltrate, often under the guise of piety or friendship, to exploit weaknesses and lead people away from sound doctrine.
This word highlights the importance of spiritual discernment within the Christian community. Believers are called to be vigilant, not only against obvious threats but also against those who operate with stealth and cunning. The targeting of "silly women loaded down with sins" demonstrates that spiritual predators often seek out those who are emotionally or spiritually vulnerable, burdened by guilt, or easily swayed by their desires. The theological implication is a call to strengthen the weak, to teach sound doctrine, and to foster an environment of discernment where such "creeping" influences can be identified and resisted. It is a reminder that the battle against spiritual evil often involves subtle infiltration rather than direct confrontation.
### Summary
`{{G1744}}` (endýnō) is a Greek verb signifying a stealthy, insidious, or deceptive entrance. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[2 Timothy 3:6]] is highly illustrative, describing those who "creep into houses" to exploit vulnerable individuals. This word emphasizes the hidden and manipulative tactics of spiritual predators who seek to infiltrate and corrupt, rather than engaging in open conflict. Theologically, `{{G1744}}` serves as a critical warning against subtle forms of spiritual deception and highlights the imperative for discernment, vigilance, and the protection of the vulnerable within the body of Christ.
TRV