### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun entolḗ (`{{G1785}}`) derives from the verb entellomai (`{{G1784}}`), meaning "to enjoin, to command." Thus, its core meaning denotes an "injunction" or "authoritative prescription." It signifies a command, precept, or ordinance that carries the weight of authority from the one issuing it. Unlike a mere suggestion or request, an entolḗ is a directive that demands obedience. Its semantic range primarily encompasses divine commands, particularly those given by God through the Mosaic Law, and crucially, the new commands issued by Jesus Christ. It can also, on occasion, refer to human traditions or precepts, often in a negative light when contrasted with divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term entolḗ appears frequently in the New Testament, reflecting its critical role in conveying divine will.
In the Gospels, entolḗ often refers to the commandments of the Mosaic Law. Jesus affirms the enduring validity of God's commands, stating that not even the smallest part of the Law will pass away until all is accomplished ([[Matthew 5:19]]). When a rich young man asks what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus directs him to "keep the commandments," specifically listing several from the Decalogue ([[Matthew 19:17-19]]). Mark's Gospel records Jesus' condemnation of those who abandon "the commandment of God" for human tradition ([[Mark 7:8-9]]). This highlights a crucial distinction: entolḗ from God is binding, while human precepts, especially when they nullify God's word, are to be rejected.
Pauline epistles often use entolḗ when discussing the Law. In [[Romans 7:8-13]], Paul describes how sin, taking opportunity through the "commandment" (referring to the prohibition against coveting), brought death. This underscores the Law's role in revealing sin, not in providing salvation. In [[Ephesians 2:15]], Paul speaks of Christ abolishing "the law of commandments expressed in ordinances," referring to the Mosaic ceremonial law that created division, thereby establishing peace.
Perhaps the most profound usage of entolḗ is found in the Johannine writings, where it refers to Christ's "new commandment." Jesus declares, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another" ([[John 13:34]]). This command of love is reiterated as central to discipleship ([[John 15:12]]). The keeping of Christ's commandments becomes the ultimate proof of love for Him and of abiding in Him ([[John 14:15]], [[John 15:10]]). The First Epistle of John further emphasizes this, stating that keeping God's entolḗ is the evidence of knowing God and loving Him ([[1 John 2:3-4]], [[1 John 3:22-24]], [[1 John 4:21]], [[1 John 5:2-3]]). Here, entolḗ is not burdensome but flows from a relationship of love.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of entolḗ is enriched by its relationship with several other key biblical terms:
* **entellomai (`{{G1784}}`):** The verbal root, meaning "to command" or "to enjoin." This connection underscores the authoritative nature of an entolḗ as something that is actively issued and expected to be obeyed.
* **nomos (`{{G3551}}`):** "Law." Entolḗ often refers to specific commands *within* the broader framework of nomos. The Law (Torah) is a collection of entolḗ, but entolḗ can also refer to individual precepts outside the comprehensive Mosaic code, such as Christ's new commandment.
* **dikaioma (`{{G1345}}`):** "Righteous requirement," "ordinance." Similar to entolḗ in denoting a divine decree or just requirement, though entolḗ more strongly emphasizes the act of commanding.
* **logos (`{{G3056}}`):** "Word." God's logos often carries the force of a command, and entolḗ can be seen as a specific instance of God's authoritative word being given.
* **pistis (`{{G4102}}`):** "Faith." In the New Testament, obedience to God's entolḗ is inextricably linked to faith. True faith is not merely intellectual assent but results in obedience to God's commands (cf. [[James 2:17]]).
* **agape (`{{G26}}`):** "Love." As seen in the Johannine writings, agape is the essence and fulfillment of all entolḗ. The greatest commandment is love for God and neighbor, and Christ's new commandment is specifically one of love.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of entolḗ is profound and multifaceted.
Firstly, entolḗ reveals the character and will of God. God's commands are not arbitrary but reflect His holy, righteous, and loving nature. They define the boundaries of acceptable human conduct and outline the path to a flourishing life in covenant with Him.
Secondly, the entolḗ of the Old Covenant highlighted humanity's inability to perfectly fulfill God's righteous demands, thereby demonstrating the need for divine grace and a new covenant. The Law's commands, while good and holy, exposed sin and brought condemnation, preparing the way for Christ.
Thirdly, Jesus Christ stands as the ultimate fulfillment of the entolḗ of the Old Covenant, perfectly obeying His Father's will. More significantly, He inaugurates a new era by giving a "new commandment" centered on love. This new entolḗ is not merely an external rule but an internal principle empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to live out God's will from a transformed heart.
Fourthly, obedience to God's entolḗ is presented as the tangible evidence of true faith and love for God. It is not a means to earn salvation but a fruit of salvation, demonstrating an intimate relationship with the Father and the Son. This obedience is not burdensome for those who love God, for His commands are given for their good and flow from His love ([[1 John 5:3]]).
Finally, the concept of entolḗ underscores the ongoing expectation for believers to live in active conformity to God's revealed will, guided by the Spirit and motivated by Christ's example and command to love.
### Summary
The Greek word entolḗ (`{{G1785}}`) denotes an authoritative command or precept, originating from a position of power and demanding obedience. In the New Testament, it frequently refers to the divine commandments of the Mosaic Law, which served to reveal God's righteous standards and expose humanity's sinfulness. Crucially, entolḗ also encompasses the "new commandment" given by Jesus Christ, which centers on mutual love among believers, reflecting His own sacrificial love. This new entolḗ becomes the defining characteristic of Christian discipleship and the ultimate expression of love for God. The keeping of God's entolḗ is presented not as a legalistic burden but as the natural outflow of a Spirit-empowered faith and a loving relationship with God, demonstrating His character and guiding believers into His perfect will.
TRV