### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **éntalma**, represented by `{{G1778}}`, is a specific term for an **injunction** or **religious precept**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the word ἐντέλλομαι, and it is consistently used to refer to commandments that originate from human authority rather than divine instruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1778}}` is used exclusively in a critical context. In parallel accounts, Jesus condemns a form of worship as "vain" because it involves "teaching for doctrines the **commandments** of men" ([[Matthew 15:9]]; [[Mark 7:7]]). This directly contrasts human-made rules with true worship. Similarly, the Apostle Paul uses the term in a rhetorical question, challenging rules and regulations that are established "after the **commandments** and doctrines of men" [[Colossians 2:22]], highlighting their worldly and perishable nature.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of `{{G1778}}`:
* `{{G1319}}` **didaskalía** (doctrine, learning, teaching): This word for instruction appears alongside `{{G1778}}` in all three of its occurrences. It can refer to sound, God-inspired **doctrine** [[2 Timothy 3:16]] or to false teachings, such as the "doctrines of devils" [[1 Timothy 4:1]]. Its pairing with `{{G1778}}` specifies that the issue is with human **commandments** being taught *as* divine **doctrine**.
* `{{G444}}` **ánthrōpos** (man, human being): In every instance where `{{G1778}}` is used, the commandments are explicitly identified as belonging to **men** ([[Matthew 15:9]]; [[Mark 7:7]]; [[Colossians 2:22]]). This qualifier is crucial, as it distinguishes these precepts from God's laws and frames them as originating from a fallible, human source.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1778}}` serves as a specific warning against religious formalism.
* **Source of Vain Worship:** The term is directly linked to worship that is "in vain." It teaches that religious activity based on human traditions, rather than God's revealed will, is empty and meaningless before Him ([[Matthew 15:9]]; [[Mark 7:7]]).
* **Human vs. Divine Authority:** `{{G1778}}` consistently represents the imposition of human authority in the spiritual realm. It underscores a central biblical theme: the danger of elevating the rules of men to the same level as the commands of God.
* **Temporary and Perishable:** Paul's usage connects these man-made **commandments** to things that "perish with the using" [[Colossians 2:22]]. This emphasizes their transient and worldly nature, contrasting them with the eternal and life-giving instructions from God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1778}}` is not a general term for any commandment but a focused label for human-devised religious precepts. It functions as a caution against legalism and the substitution of human tradition for divine truth. The scriptural use of **éntalma** illustrates that commandments originating from men, when taught as core doctrine, corrupt worship and distract from an authentic relationship with God.
TRV