The meaning of “ἐντολή”
Understanding entolḗ reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
commandment, precept. - injunction, i.e. an authoritative prescription
ἐντολή
commandment, precept. - injunction, i.e. an authoritative prescription
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 19:17 | “And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” Word: ἐντολή (entolḗ) | |
| John 13:34 | “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Word: ἐντολή (entolḗ) | |
| 1 Corinthians 14:37 | “If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.” Word: ἐντολή (entolḗ) | |
| 1 Timothy 6:14 | “That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:” Word: ἐντολή (entolḗ) | |
| 2 Peter 3:2 | “That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:” Word: ἐντολή (entolḗ) |
Theological Word Study: Commandment
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Commandment, precept
The Hebrew mitsvah (מִצְוָה) means commandment—divine instruction to be obeyed. The Torah contains 613 mitsvot (commandments), summarized in loving God and neighbor (Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Commandment, order
The Greek entole (ἐντολή) denotes a commandment or injunction. Jesus summarized the law in two commandments (Matthew 22:37-40) and gave a 'new commandment' to love one another (John 13:34).