The meaning of “διαθήκη”
Understanding diathḗkē reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
covenant, testament. - properly, a disposition, i.e. (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will)
διαθήκη
covenant, testament. - properly, a disposition, i.e. (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 26:28 | “For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Word: διαθήκη (diathḗkē) | |
| Luke 22:20 | “Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.” Word: διαθήκη (diathḗkē) | |
| Romans 11:27 | “For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.” Word: διαθήκη (diathḗkē) | |
| 2 Corinthians 3:14 | “But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.” Word: διαθήκη (diathḗkē) | |
| Ephesians 2:12 | “That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:” Word: διαθήκη (diathḗkē) |
Theological Word Study: Covenant
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Covenant, treaty
The Hebrew berit (בְּרִית) denotes a covenant—a binding agreement, often ratified by blood sacrifice. God's covenants (Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic) structure redemptive history, culminating in the New Covenant.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Covenant, testament
The Greek diatheke (διαθήκη) means covenant or testament—a binding arrangement. The New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34) is ratified by Christ's blood, surpassing the old (Hebrews 8:6-13).