ἐντυπόω (entupoō)
entupoō
to engrave
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb entupōō means to press a design into a surface, creating a lasting impression or engraving. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 3:7, where Paul uses it metaphorically. He contrasts the old covenant with the new, suggesting that the ministry of the Spirit leaves a permanent mark on the heart, unlike the fading glory associated with stone tablets.
The word combines the prefix en-, meaning "in," with typos, referring to an impression or stamp. This etymology highlights the physical act of carving or stamping something so that it cannot be easily removed. Translators typically render this as "engraved" or "imprinted," capturing the sense of a deliberate and enduring action rather than a temporary contact.
This single usage underscores the permanence of the new covenant. While the old law was written on stone, the new life in Christ is described as being engraved upon the human heart by the Spirit. The imagery suggests that this transformation is not superficial but deeply embedded, shaping the believer's identity and conduct from within.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word entupoō describes the act of engraving or stamping a design into a hard surface. In ancient times, this created a permanent mark that could not be easily erased. Paul uses this image in 2 Corinthians to explain how God’s truth works in our lives. Unlike temporary impressions, an engraving is deep and lasting.
When we read about the new covenant, we see that God does not just write rules on stone tablets. Instead, He places His law within us. This happens through the Spirit, who creates a permanent change in our hearts. The result is a life shaped by love and obedience from the inside out.
This truth offers great comfort. You do not have to rely on your own strength to keep God’s commands. He has already begun a work that will remain with you forever. His grace leaves an enduring mark on your character, guiding you through every season of life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- engraved1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐντετυπωμένη1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 3:7
But if the service of death, written engraved on stones, came with glory, so that the children of Israel could not look steadfastly on the face of Moses for the glory of his face, which was passing away,
Paul contrasts the fading glory of the old covenant written on stone with the permanent work of the Spirit engraved in the heart.