from ἐντυγχάνω; an interview, i.e. (specially) supplication:--intercession, prayer.
Transliteration:énteuxis
Pronunciation:ent'-yook-sis
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun énteuxis (`{{G1783}}`) is derived from the verb entynchano (`{{G1793}}`), which fundamentally means "to meet with," "to fall in with," or "to happen upon." Consequently, énteuxis carries the primary sense of an "interview" or a "meeting." In a specialized and particularly relevant sense within biblical contexts, it denotes an "audience" with a superior, a "petition," or "supplication." The semantic range encompasses:
* **Direct Access:** Implies the ability to approach someone in authority directly.
* **Petition/Plea:** Refers to a specific request or appeal made earnestly.
* **Intercession:** The act of making a request on behalf of another, acting as an intermediary.
This word suggests a purposeful, often earnest, and direct communication, particularly in the context of prayer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term énteuxis (`{{G1783}}`) appears twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring in the Pastoral Epistles, specifically 1 Timothy.
* **[[1 Timothy 2:1]]**: "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,"
* Here, énteuxis is listed as one among several forms of prayer, alongside deesis (`{{G1162}}`, "supplications," often for specific needs), proseuche (`{{G4335}}`, "prayers," a general term for devotion), and eucharistia (`{{G2169}}`, "thanksgivings"). Its inclusion suggests a distinct nuance. In this context, énteuxis strongly conveys the idea of "intercession," a direct appeal or petition made on behalf of others. The verse emphasizes the necessity of corporate prayer for all humanity, including those in authority, highlighting the church's role in advocating for the world before God.
* **[[1 Timothy 4:5]]**: "...for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer."
* The Greek phrase is dia logou theou kai enteuxews. Here, énteuxis refers to the act of prayer that sanctifies or sets apart food for consumption. The "prayer" (énteuxis) in this verse is not merely a general devotional act but a specific, direct address to God, petitioning for the consecration or blessing of something. It underscores the power of direct communication with God to imbue created things with holiness for the believer's use.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding énteuxis (`{{G1783}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Greek terms:
* **entynchano (`{{G1793}}`)**: The verbal root of énteuxis. This verb is critically important as it describes the intercessory work of both the Holy Spirit (e.g., [[Romans 8:26-27]], "the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words") and Jesus Christ (e.g., [[Romans 8:34]], "Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us"; [[Hebrews 7:25]], "he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them"). The noun énteuxis therefore directly connects to this divine pattern of intercession.
* **deesis (`{{G1162}}`)**: "Supplication" or "petition," often emphasizing a specific request born out of need. While énteuxis can be a form of deesis, it carries the added nuance of direct access and intercession for others.
* **proseuche (`{{G4335}}`)**: The most common and general term for "prayer," often referring to prayer as an act of worship or devotion. énteuxis is a particular *type* or *aspect* of proseuche, focusing on direct petition or intercession.
* **hikesia (`{{G2412}}`)**: "Supplication" or "entreaty," emphasizing a humble and earnest plea.
* **paraklesis (`{{G3874}}`)**: "Exhortation," "comfort," or "appeal." While distinct, it can sometimes overlap with the idea of a strong appeal or entreaty.
### Theological Significance
The word énteuxis (`{{G1783}}`) carries profound theological weight, highlighting several key aspects of Christian faith and practice:
* **Privileged Access to God:** The very notion of an "interview" or "audience" with God underscores the believer's unique and privileged position. Through Christ, believers have direct access to the divine throne room, a concept affirmed elsewhere in Scripture (e.g., [[Ephesians 3:12]], [[Hebrews 4:16]]). This access is not earned but graciously granted.
* **The Nature of Intercession:** Énteuxis vividly portrays prayer as active intercession. It is not merely speaking *to* God, but speaking *with* God, often *for* others. This aligns with the New Testament's emphasis on the intercessory ministry of Christ and the Holy Spirit, making human intercession a participation in divine activity. It highlights the call to selfless love and advocacy within the community of faith.
* **Sanctifying Power of Prayer:** As seen in [[1 Timothy 4:5]], énteuxis demonstrates that direct, petitionary prayer has the power to sanctify and set apart aspects of daily life. This illustrates that prayer is not confined to formal worship but permeates and transforms the mundane, making all things holy through communion with God.
* **Confidence in Prayer:** The word implies a certain boldness and confidence in approaching God. It is not a timid whisper but a direct address, reflecting a relationship of trust and intimacy.
### Summary
The Greek term énteuxis (`{{G1783}}`) signifies a direct "interview" or "audience," particularly evolving in biblical usage to mean "supplication" or, more specifically, "intercession." Appearing twice in 1 Timothy, its contextual use illuminates crucial aspects of Christian prayer. In [[1 Timothy 2:1]], énteuxis emphasizes the vital practice of intercessory prayer for all humanity, underscoring the believer's direct access to God on behalf of others. In [[1 Timothy 4:5]], it highlights the sanctifying power of prayer, demonstrating how direct communication with God can consecrate elements of daily life. Rooted in the verb entynchano (`{{G1793}}`), which describes the intercessory work of Christ and the Holy Spirit, énteuxis profoundly underscores the believer's privileged access to God and the solemn yet joyful responsibility of advocating for others through confident, direct petition. It encapsulates a relational and transformative dimension of prayer within the Christian life.
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