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G1795 · Greek · New Testament
ἐντυπόω
entypoo
Verb
to imprint, engrave, stamp upon

Definition

Entypoo (ἐντυπόω) means to carve into or engrave upon — to make a lasting impression in a surface. Crucially, it appears in 2 Corinthians 3:7 in Paul's contrast between the two covenants: the Mosaic ministry that came 'engraved [entypoo] in letters on stone' versus the ministry of the Spirit written on human hearts. The word directly recalls Exodus 32:16 where the tablets were 'inscribed by God' — and now Paul transfers that metaphor from stone to the living heart.

Usage & Theological Significance

The contrast Paul draws using entypoo is one of his most profound covenant theology passages. The old covenant was glorious — it was God's own handiwork, engraved on stone tablets. But it was external, imposed from outside. The new covenant glory surpasses it precisely because the Spirit now engraves God's law on the heart itself (Ezekiel 36:26-27; Jeremiah 31:33). The same divine artistry that cut letters into stone now cuts into the human spirit — the difference being that living stone, unlike dead stone, can respond, obey, and love.

Key Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 3:7 Now if the ministry that brought death, which was engraved [entypoo] in letters on stone, came with glory...
Exodus 32:16 The tablets were the work of God; the writing was the writing of God, engraved on the tablets.
Jeremiah 31:33 'I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God.'
Ezekiel 36:26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.
Hebrews 10:16 'This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.'

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