a prolonged form of a primary verb (which latter appears only in certain tenses); to arrange in an orderly manner, i.e. assign or dispose (to a certain position or lot):--addict, appoint, determine, ordain, set.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tássō**, represented by `{{G5021}}`, means to **arrange in an orderly manner** or to **assign or dispose** to a certain position. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**. The term conveys a sense of order, appointment, and deliberate placement, with applications ranging from being set under authority to being ordained for a specific purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5021}}` is used to describe both divine decree and human decision. It refers to God's sovereign act of having **ordained** governing powers [[Romans 13:1]] and also describes those who were **ordained** to eternal life [[Acts 13:48]]. Jesus had **appointed** a mountain for his disciples to meet him [[Matthew 28:16]]. The word is also used to describe a centurion who was a man **set** under authority [[Luke 7:8]]. On a human level, the church **determined** to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem [[Acts 15:2]], and the household of Stephanas **addicted** themselves to the ministry of the saints [[1 Corinthians 16:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **tássō** appears:
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō** (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G5021}}`, calling for every soul to **be subject** to the higher powers that God has ordained [[Romans 13:1]].
* `{{G1849}}` **exousía** (delegated influence, authority): This term for **power** or **authority** is what God ordains in rulers [[Romans 13:1]] and what the centurion recognized as the basis of his position in a military hierarchy [[Luke 7:8]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith, believe): This word shows the response to divine appointment, as those who were ordained to eternal life **believed** the word of the Lord [[Acts 13:48]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5021}}` is significant, highlighting concepts of order and purpose.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word underscores God’s authority in arranging both earthly and eternal matters. He has **ordained** the powers that be [[Romans 13:1]] and has also **ordained** individuals to eternal life [[Acts 13:48]].
* **Hierarchical Structure:** `{{G5021}}` is used to illustrate a clear understanding of structure and authority. This is seen when Jesus **appointed** a meeting place [[Matthew 28:16]] and when the centurion described himself as a man **set** under authority [[Luke 7:8]].
* **Purposeful Action:** The term can describe determined human commitment. In Damascus, Paul was to be told of all things **appointed** for him to do [[Acts 22:10]]. Likewise, the house of Stephanas **addicted** themselves to ministry, demonstrating a self-assigned devotion [[1 Corinthians 16:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5021}}` is a versatile word that signifies deliberate arrangement and assignment. From God ordaining governments to believers dedicating themselves to service, **tássō** consistently points to the establishment of order. It reveals a world structured by divine appointments, recognized authority, and purposeful human action.
TRV