εἰσκαλέω (eiskaleō)
eiskaleō
to invite
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb eiskaleō means to call someone into one’s own space, specifically inviting them into a home. Formed from the prefix eis ("into") and kaleō ("to call"), it describes a personal summons that brings guests inside, rather than a general public announcement.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 10:23. There, Peter’s hosts send messengers to invite him to stay with them. The usage highlights the hospitality and social connection inherent in the act of bringing someone into one's private dwelling.
While similar to other words for calling, eiskaleō emphasizes the destination—the interior of a house. It captures the specific moment of transition from outside to inside, marking the beginning of fellowship and shared life within a household.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word eiskaleō carries a sense of personal welcome, drawing someone from the outside into the private space of a home. It is not a general announcement but a specific summons that initiates fellowship and shared life within a household. In Acts 10:23, this act of inviting Peter marks a pivotal moment of connection across cultural boundaries.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God often works through the simple, everyday acts of hospitality. When we open our doors to others, we participate in creating spaces where relationships deepen and understanding grows. It encourages us to see every invitation as an opportunity to build bridges and share in the common life of the community.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Having called in1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εἰσκαλεσάμενος1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 10:23
So he called them in and provided a place to stay. On the next day Peter arose and went out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
This verse captures the specific action of bringing Peter inside, highlighting how personal hospitality facilitated a significant moment of cross-cultural fellowship.