### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epitássō**, represented by `{{G2004}}`, is defined as to arrange upon, i.e. order, **charge**, **command**, or **injoin**. It appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. This term signifies a direct and authoritative order that expects compliance, stemming from a position of power or recognized right.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2004}}` is frequently used to demonstrate Jesus's supreme authority. He **commandeth** even the winds and water, which in turn **obey** him [[Luke 8:25]]. This authority extends to the spiritual realm, where with **authority** `{{G1849}}` and **power** `{{G1411}}` he **commandeth** unclean spirits, and they **come out** `{{G1831}}` ([[Luke 4:36]], [[Mark 1:27]]). The word is also used in human contexts, such as when a king **commanded** an executioner to behead John the Baptist [[Mark 6:27]] or when the high priest Ananias **commanded** those present to smite Paul [[Acts 23:2]]. In Philemon, Paul acknowledges he has the boldness to **enjoin** Philemon but chooses instead to appeal to him [[Philemon 1:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of authoritative command:
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía**: This word for **authority** or delegated influence is often the basis from which a command is given. It is used to explain how Jesus **commandeth** the unclean spirits, demonstrating that His orders stem from inherent mastery [[Mark 1:27]].
* `{{G2008}}` **epitimáō**: Meaning to **rebuke** or censure, this term is used in parallel with `{{G2004}}`. Jesus **rebuked** the foul spirit before he gave the **charge** for it to come out of the man [[Mark 9:25]].
* `{{G5219}}` **hypakoúō**: As the direct counterpart to a command, this word means to **obey** or heed an authority. It highlights the effect of Christ's commands, as both natural elements and spiritual beings **obey** him ([[Luke 8:25]], [[Mark 1:27]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2004}}` is centered on the nature of divine authority.
* **Dominion over Nature:** Christ's ability to **command** the wind and water reveals his sovereignty over the created order, a power belonging to God alone [[Luke 8:25]].
* **Authority over the Spiritual Realm:** The word underscores Jesus's absolute power over demonic forces. He does not negotiate but simply **commandeth** them, and they are compelled to obey [[Luke 4:36]]. Even the demons recognize this power, as they besought Him not to **command** them into the deep [[Luke 8:31]].
* **Models of Human Authority:** The use of `{{G2004}}` in human interactions illustrates different forms of authority, from the absolute decree of a king [[Mark 6:27]] and the command of a master to his servant [[Luke 14:22]] to the apostolic authority Paul possessed to **enjoin** fellow believers [[Philemon 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2004}}` is more than a simple verb for giving an order. It is a term that defines the very structure of authority, both divine and human. Through its use, scripture illustrates Christ's unparalleled dominion over creation and the spiritual world, distinguishing His inherent power to **command** from the delegated or assumed authority of men. It conveys the force of an order that is not to be questioned, but obeyed.
TRV