εἴσειμι (eiseimi)
eiseimi
to enter
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb eiseimi means to go into or enter a place. It is formed from the prefix eis, meaning "into," and the verb eimi, meaning "to go" or "to be." This combination creates a clear sense of movement from the outside to the inside.
In the New Testament, this word appears only four times, mostly in Acts and Hebrews. It is used to describe physical entry, such as when Paul goes into Jerusalem (Acts 21:26) or when priests enter the holy place (Hebrews 9:6). The sources note it corresponds to the Hebrew bo in the Septuagint, which also means to go in.
Translators usually render eiseimi simply as "enter." Its straightforward nature makes it a reliable word for describing physical movement into a space. It does not carry the deeper spiritual connotations of other Greek words for entering, but rather focuses on the act of going inside.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word eiseimi simply means to enter a place. It describes the physical act of moving from outside to inside. In the New Testament, this term appears only four times. It is used in Acts when Paul visits Jerusalem and the temple. It also appears in Hebrews describing priests entering the holy place.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God meets us where we are. Just as people physically entered spaces to seek help or worship, we can approach God with our real needs. The text shows ordinary moments of movement and presence. These simple actions highlight how God is present in our daily lives and routines.
Whether you are seeking guidance or simply resting in His presence, this word points to accessibility. You do not need complex rituals to draw near. The invitation is open. We can step into His care with honesty and trust, knowing He welcomes us just as we are.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- was going in1×
- was entering1×
- to enter1×
- enter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εἰσῄει2×
- εἰσίασιν1×
- εἰσιέναι1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 3:3
Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive gifts for the needy.
This verse shows a man entering the temple to ask for help, highlighting how physical movement can accompany a heart seeking mercy.
-
Hebrews 9:6
Now these things having been thus prepared, the priests go in continually into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the services,
Here the word describes priests entering the tabernacle for service, setting the stage for understanding Christ's superior entry into heaven.
-
Acts 21:26
Then Paul took the men, and the next day purified himself and went with them into the temple, declaring the fulfillment of the days of purification, until the offering was offered for every one of them.
Paul enters the temple to fulfill a vow, demonstrating how believers engage with community and religious obligations in a tangible way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does eiseimi mean in the Bible?
Where does eiseimi appear in Scripture?
Is eiseimi different from other words for enter?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 2 books)
Acts 3 verses
Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive gifts for the needy.
Acts 21:18The day following, Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
Acts 21:26Then Paul took the men, and the next day purified himself and went with them into the temple, declaring the fulfillment…