ἔγγυος (enguos)
enguos
guarantor
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The word enguos refers to a guarantor or surety, someone who pledges themselves for another’s debt or obligation. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Hebrews 7:22, where Jesus is described as the guarantor of a better covenant. This single usage highlights His role as the one who stands between God and humanity, ensuring that the promise of salvation is secure.
Its etymology suggests a connection to being "within" or "near," implying close involvement in the matter at hand. Unlike a distant witness, a guarantor takes personal responsibility. The author of Hebrews uses this term to show how Jesus’ priesthood is superior because He does not merely mediate; He personally guarantees the covenant’s success through His own life and sacrifice.
Translators typically render enguos as "guarantor" or "surety," terms that carry legal weight. This choice emphasizes the reliability of Christ’s work. The word reminds readers that the new covenant rests not on human effort, but on the unshakeable commitment of Jesus Himself, who ensures that God’s promises are fulfilled.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word enguos means guarantor or surety. In ancient legal contexts, this person took full responsibility for another’s debt. If the debtor failed to pay, the guarantor stepped in to cover it completely. This was a serious role requiring deep trust and personal risk.
In Hebrews 7:22, Jesus is called the guarantor of a better covenant. He does not just suggest a way to God; He personally secures your standing with Him. Your salvation rests on His unshakeable commitment, not your own fluctuating performance. This brings great peace, knowing that what God promises, Christ ensures it happens.
You can rest in this security. The weight of your relationship with God is held by One who never fails. His life and sacrifice guarantee that the new covenant is real and lasting for you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [the] guarantee1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔγγυος1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 7:22
By so much, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
This verse identifies Jesus as the personal guarantor who secures the effectiveness of the new covenant, shifting reliance from human effort to His own faithful mediation.