from ἐν and the base of τέλος; to enjoin:--(give) charge, (give) command(-ments), injoin.
Transliteration:entéllomai
Pronunciation:en-tel'-lom-ahee
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1781 (entéllomai) is a compound word derived from ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "into," and the base of τέλος (telos), signifying "end," "purpose," or "completion." This etymology is highly instructive, suggesting a command or injunction given *into* someone with a specific *purpose* or *end* in mind, implying a directed action and an expected outcome.
The primary meaning of entéllomai is "to command," "to order," "to charge," or "to enjoin." It denotes an authoritative directive, not merely a suggestion or request. The one issuing the command possesses the authority to do so, and there is an expectation of obedience. The action commanded is intended to bring about a specific result or fulfill a particular purpose. This word emphasizes the binding nature of the instruction and the will of the one giving it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
G1781 appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, highlighting its significance in the discourse of Jesus and the apostles. Its usage consistently underscores divine or delegated authority:
* **Jesus Issuing Commands:** Often, Jesus employs entéllomai to give authoritative instructions to His disciples. For instance, He "commanded" them not to tell anyone about His transfiguration until after His resurrection [[Matthew 17:9]]. Similarly, in the Great Commission, He instructs them to teach new disciples "to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you" [[Matthew 28:20]]. This usage establishes Jesus' own divine authority to issue mandates.
* **Referring to God's Commandments (Mosaic Law):** The term is used to refer to God's commands, particularly those given through Moses. Jesus challenges the Pharisees for transgressing "the commandment of God" for the sake of their tradition [[Matthew 15:3]]. This highlights the divine origin and immutable nature of these commands.
* **The Father's Command to the Son:** Significantly, Jesus speaks of the Father "commanding" Him concerning His life and mission. He states, "This commandment I have received from my Father" regarding laying down His life and taking it up again [[John 10:18]]. He also affirms, "as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do" [[John 14:31]]. This reveals the perfect obedience of the Son to the Father's will and the unified purpose within the Godhead.
* **The "New Commandment":** Perhaps most profoundly, Jesus uses entéllomai to introduce His "new commandment" to His disciples: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another" [[John 13:34]]. This command, reiterated in [[John 15:12]], encapsulates the essence of Christian discipleship and transforms the nature of obedience from external adherence to internal, sacrificial love.
* **General Obedience:** The term also appears in contexts of general obedience to God's directives, as seen in the description of Zechariah and Elizabeth walking "in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless" [[Luke 1:6]].
Across these contexts, entéllomai consistently conveys the idea of a binding directive from a superior authority, demanding compliance and shaping behavior according to a divine or authoritative will.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate G1781, it is helpful to distinguish it from and relate it to other terms for command or instruction:
* **`{{G2753}}` (keleuō):** Generally means "to command" or "to order," often in a military or official context, focusing on the issuance of the order itself.
* **`{{G3853}}` (paraggellō):** "To transmit a message," "to command," or "to charge." This word often implies a specific, detailed instruction or warning, frequently given by a superior to a subordinate. While similar, entéllomai often carries a broader sense of an authoritative mandate.
* **`{{G1299}}` (diatassō):** "To arrange thoroughly," "to ordain," or "to command." This term suggests a more systematic ordering or arrangement, often implying an established rule or regulation.
* **`{{G4367}}` (prostassō):** "To place before," "to command," or "to appoint." This term can suggest a formal or public declaration of a command.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent `{{H6680}}` (tsavah), "to command" or "to charge," is frequently used for God's directives, and `{{H4687}}` (mitsvah) refers to a "commandment" itself. The concept of divine command is foundational to both testaments.
Theologically, entéllomai is intrinsically linked to concepts such as:
* **Divine Authority:** The source of the command.
* **Obedience:** The expected response to the command.
* **Law/Torah:** The body of divine commands.
* **Covenant:** The framework within which commands are given and received.
* **Discipleship:** The life lived in submission to Christ's commands.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1781 is profound and multifaceted:
1. **Affirmation of Divine Sovereignty and Authority:** When God or Jesus "commands" (entéllomai), it underscores their absolute authority and sovereignty. Their commands are not suggestions but binding directives that reflect their perfect will and wisdom. This word reinforces the hierarchical relationship between Creator and creature, Lord and disciple.
2. **The Nature of Christ's Lordship:** Jesus' frequent use of entéllomai to issue His own commands unequivocally establishes His divine Lordship. He does not merely interpret the Law; He issues new, authoritative commands, such as the "new commandment" of love. His obedience to the Father's commands also highlights the unity and perfect will within the Godhead, serving as the ultimate model for human obedience.
3. **The Essence of Discipleship:** Christian discipleship is fundamentally characterized by obedience to Christ's commands. Jesus Himself stated, "If ye love me, keep my commandments" [[John 14:15]]. The commands given by Christ are not burdensome but are pathways to life, freedom, and intimacy with God. The call to "observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you" [[Matthew 28:20]] forms the very core of the Great Commission and ongoing Christian formation.
4. **Covenantal Relationship:** Commands are integral to the covenant relationship between God and humanity. They define the parameters of the relationship, outlining God's expectations and humanity's responsibilities. In the New Covenant, the "new commandment" of love fulfills and transcends the Mosaic Law, establishing a relationship based on grace-empowered obedience motivated by love.
### Summary
The Greek word G1781 (entéllomai) signifies an authoritative command, charge, or injunction. Its etymology, combining "in/into" and "end/purpose," points to a directive given with a specific outcome or intention. In the New Testament, it consistently highlights the absolute authority of God and Jesus Christ, who issue binding mandates. The usage of entéllomai is crucial for understanding the nature of Christ's Lordship, the perfect obedience of the Son to the Father, and the foundational role of obedience in Christian discipleship. The "new commandment" of love, given by Jesus using this very term, stands as the pinnacle of His authoritative instruction, encapsulating the essence of the Christian life. Ultimately, entéllomai underscores the divine will to which believers are called to respond in faith and obedient love.
TRV