### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **entypóō**, represented by `{{G1795}}`, means **to enstamp, i.e. engrave**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically refers to the act of physically carving or impressing an image or text onto a hard surface, creating a permanent inscription.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1795}}` is found in [[2 Corinthians 3:7]], where it describes the Ten Commandments. Paul refers to the "ministration of death" `{{G1248}}` `{{G2288}}` as being **engraven** in stones `{{G3037}}`. This ministry, associated with the law given to Moses `{{G3475}}`, possessed a real glory `{{G1391}}`. The glory was so intense that the children of Israel `{{G2474}}` could not stedfastly behold `{{G816}}` the face `{{G4383}}` of Moses. However, this glory was temporary and was to be done away `{{G2673}}`, setting up a contrast with the more glorious ministry of the Spirit.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of the law and its glory:
* `{{G1121}}` **grámma** (a writing, i.e. a letter, note, epistle, book, etc.; plural learning): Used alongside "engraven," it refers to the written code. Paul contrasts this "letter" which killeth with the Spirit which giveth life [[2 Corinthians 3:6]].
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone (literally or figuratively)): This is the material upon which the law was engraven. While the old covenant was on stones, believers are described as "lively stones" being built up a spiritual house [[1 Peter 2:5]].
* `{{G1248}}` **diakonía** (attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the Christian teacher, or technically of the diaconate)): This describes the "ministration" or "service" of the law. While the law was a "ministration of death" [[2 Corinthians 3:7]], believers now have the "ministry of reconciliation" [[2 Corinthians 5:18]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)): The engraved law had a fading "glory," but the New Covenant reveals a greater, lasting "glory" in the face of Jesus Christ [[2 Corinthians 4:6]] and changes believers from "glory to glory" [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1795}}` is significant, despite its single use.
* **The Inscribed Law:** The act of engraving `{{G1795}}` onto stone `{{G3037}}` highlights the permanent and fixed nature of the Mosaic law. It was physically and indelibly marked as a testament.
* **A Ministry of Death:** The object that was "engraven" is explicitly identified as the "ministration of death" `{{G1248}}` `{{G2288}}`. This underscores the theological point that the law, while from God, brings knowledge of sin and ultimately results in death [[Romans 6:23]].
* **Contrasting Glories:** The glory `{{G1391}}` associated with the "engraven" law was real but ultimately temporary, as it was "to be done away" `{{G2673}}`. This serves to magnify the surpassing and permanent glory of the New Covenant, which is not written on stone but in the heart [[Hebrews 8:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1795}}` is a highly specific verb used only once to describe the physical inscription of the law on stone tablets. This single use provides a powerful visual anchor for Paul's argument in 2 Corinthians 3. It represents a ministry that was tangible and glorious, yet also one of death whose glory would fade. The act of being **engraven** thus symbolizes the entire Old Covenant system, which was superseded by the superior glory and life-giving ministry of the Spirit.
TRV