### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nomothetéō**, represented by `{{G3549}}`, means to legislate, be established, or receive the law. It derives from νομοθέτης and appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use focuses on the establishment and sanctioning of divine laws and covenants.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G3549}}` are found in the book of Hebrews, where it is used to contrast the old and new covenants. In one context, it refers to the Mosaic law, stating that **under** `{{G1909}}` the Levitical **priesthood** `{{G2420}}` the **people** `{{G2992}}` **received the law** `{{G3549}}` [[Hebrews 7:11]]. In the other, it describes the new covenant, which was **established** `{{G3549}}` **upon** `{{G1909}}` **better** `{{G2909}}` **promises** `{{G1860}}`, highlighting the superior nature of Christ's work [[Hebrews 8:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the framework in which `{{G3549}}` is used:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant, testament): This word is central to both passages, providing the context of the legal and contractual arrangement being discussed, whether old or new [[Hebrews 8:6]].
* `{{G2420}}` **hierōsýnē** (priesthood): The law was given in the context of a specific **priesthood**, and the introduction of a new priesthood necessitates a change in the law itself [[Hebrews 7:11]].
* `{{G2909}}` **kreíttōn** (better, nobler): This comparative term is used to describe the promises upon which the new covenant is **established** `{{G3549}}`, directly contrasting it with the former system [[Hebrews 8:6]].
* `{{G3316}}` **mesítēs** (mediator): The new covenant is not only **established** `{{G3549}}` on better promises but is also administered by a **mediator** with a more excellent ministry [[Hebrews 8:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G3549}}` is centered on the transition from the law of Moses to the covenant in Christ.
* **The Law and the Priesthood:** The word is used to show the inseparable link between the Mosaic law and the Levitical **priesthood** `{{G2420}}`. The people "received the law" under that specific priestly system [[Hebrews 7:11]].
* **Insufficiency of the Old System:** The use of `{{G3549}}` in [[Hebrews 7:11]] is part of an argument showing that the system under which the law was received could not bring **perfection** `{{G5050}}`, thus requiring a new order.
* **Establishment of a New Covenant:** The word demonstrates that the new covenant is not lawless but is itself a divinely sanctioned system, **established** `{{G3549}}` on a superior foundation of **better** `{{G2909}}` promises [[Hebrews 8:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3549}}` **nomothetéō** is a specific term for the enactment or reception of law. Though used only twice, its placement in Hebrews is critical. It defines both the old system, where the people **received the law** under the Levitical priesthood, and the new, where a **better** `{{G2909}}` covenant was **established** by a new **mediator** `{{G3316}}`. The word powerfully frames the shift from the limited framework of the Mosaic law to the superior and lasting covenant in Christ.
TRV