ἔννομος (ennomos)
ennomos
under law
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word ennomos describes something that is lawful, regular, or bound by legal standards. It functions as an adjective derived from roots meaning "in" and "law," indicating a state of being subject to established rules rather than operating outside them. This term appears only twice in the New Testament, specifically within Acts and First Corinthians.
In Acts 19:39, it characterizes a gathering that is lawful or legally constituted, distinguishing proper civic order from disorderly conduct. In First Corinthians 9:21, Paul uses it to describe his relationship to Christ as being "under law" in a relational sense, suggesting obedience and alignment with divine authority rather than mere legalistic constraint.
The word highlights the concept of legitimacy and adherence to established norms. Whether referring to civic assemblies or spiritual submission, ennomos points to a structured order where actions are recognized as valid and right within their specific context.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ennomos reminds us that faith is not a chaotic free-for-all, but a life grounded in order and relationship. In Acts, it describes a lawful gathering, showing that God cares about proper structure and civic respect. We are called to live with integrity, honoring the institutions around us while maintaining our witness.
In Corinthians, Paul uses it to describe his bond with Christ. He is not outside the law, but under its guidance through Jesus. This means our obedience is not burdensome rule-following, but a willing alignment with divine love. It offers peace, knowing our lives are held within a framework of grace and truth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- under [the] law1×
- lawful1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔννομος1×
- ἐννόμῳ1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 19:39
But if you seek anything about other matters, it will be settled in the regular assembly.
This verse shows the word describing a lawful civic assembly, highlighting the importance of orderly conduct in public life.
-
I Corinthians 9:21
to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law.
Here Paul defines his spiritual stance as being under law toward Christ, emphasizing relational obedience over legalistic freedom.