Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Commandment”
The biblical word “Commandment” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (mitsvah (Hebrew), entole (Greek)), where it meant “A divine decree; an authoritative order from God”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “An authoritative order or instruction; a divine precept”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekmitsvah (Hebrew), entole (Greek)A divine decree; an authoritative order from God
Hebrew mitsvah (H4687) God's commandments (Exodus 20:1-17). Greek entole (G1785) used in NT for Christ's commandments (John 13:34). Also tsav (H6680) for divine commands.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinmandatumA law or precept; particularly the Ten Commandments as the foundation of moral law
Latin mandatum (order, command). Medieval theology systematized the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) as God's moral law binding on all believers.
Modern English
EnglishcommandmentAn authoritative order or instruction; a divine precept
From Old French commandement via Latin mandatum. From Middle English: command + -ment. Retains theological weight in religious contexts.