Torah in Koine

Teacher: Noun

The Meaning and Usage of G1320 (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) in the Greek Bible

The noun G1320 (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) is used approximately 60 times in the Koine New Testament and consistently refers to teachers who, directly or indirectly, are associated with the Torah and the teachings of God. Whether these teachers correctly teach the Torah, misunderstand it, or even mislead others, the term is always connected to the concept of instructing in God's law and His commandments.

Reflection on "Teacher" as a Role in Conveying the Torah

Every instance of G1320 (διδάσκαλος) in the New Testament can be seen as referring to a teacher whose role involves the transmission of the Torah or the broader teachings of God's Word. The New Testament does not use this term for those teaching subjects unrelated to God's law. Whether the teaching is correct or not, or whether the teacher fully understands what they are teaching, G1320 is always linked to the Torah.

Representative Verses and Their Connection to the Torah

1. Matthew 23:8
   "But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), and you are all brothers."
   Connection to the Torah: Jesus refers to Himself as the ultimate teacher, implying that His teachings are the true interpretation of the Torah.

2. John 3:2
   "This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, 'Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.'"
   Connection to the Torah: Nicodemus acknowledges Jesus as a teacher sent by God, which aligns Him with the divine instruction found in the Torah.

3. Matthew 5:19
   "Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
   Connection to the Torah: This verse directly connects the role of a teacher with the importance of adhering to the commandments, which are the core of the Torah.

4. Luke 10:25
   "And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, 'Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), what shall I do to inherit eternal life?'"
   Connection to the Torah: The question of inheriting eternal life is deeply rooted in understanding and following the Torah.

5. Matthew 19:16
   "And behold, a man came up to him, saying, 'Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), what good deed must I do to have eternal life?'"
   Connection to the Torah: The man is asking about the actions required by the Torah to attain eternal life.

6. Mark 12:14
   "And they came and said to him, 'Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), we know that you are true and do not care about anyone's opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God.'"
   Connection to the Torah: The Pharisees acknowledge Jesus as one who teaches God's way, which is a direct reference to the Torah.

7. Matthew 8:19
   "And a scribe came up and said to him, 'Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), I will follow you wherever you go.'"
   Connection to the Torah: The scribe recognizes Jesus as a teacher, someone who would provide guidance based on the Torah.

8. Luke 20:21
   "So they asked him, 'Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God.'"
   Connection to the Torah: Again, the emphasis is on teaching the way of God, which is fundamentally connected to the Torah.

9. John 13:13
   "You call me Teacher (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos) and Lord, and you are right, for so I am."
   Connection to the Torah: Jesus affirms His role as a teacher, indicating that His teachings are authoritative and grounded in God's law.

10. James 3:1
    "Not many of you should become teachers (διδάσκαλος, didaskalos), my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness."
    Connection to the Torah: The warning given here is about the serious responsibility of teaching God's Word, which includes the Torah.

Conclusion

Upon examining all instances of G1320 (διδάσκαλος) in the New Testament, it is clear that the term is exclusively used for those who are involved in teaching the Torah or the broader teachings of God's commandments. The New Testament does not use the term "teacher" for anyone instructing in subjects unrelated to God's law. This consistent usage underscores the importance of understanding the role of a teacher in the context of the Torah and divine instruction. Whether the teaching is done correctly or incorrectly, the connection to the Torah remains evident in every instance.

guardian and guide of boys: Noun

The Role of the Law as a Pedagogue (G3807)

"Pedagogue" in English typically refers to a teacher or an educator. The term is derived from the Greek word "παιδαγωγός" (paidagogos), which originally referred to a slave who was responsible for overseeing and guiding a child’s education and behavior. In modern usage, it can also imply someone who is overly concerned with formal rules and methods, sometimes in a negative sense. However, in a biblical context, "pedagogue" refers to someone who guides or instructs, especially in a moral or spiritual sense. 

In Galatians 3:24, the Apostle Paul describes the role of the law (Torah) as a "pedagogue" (παιδαγωγός, paidagogos), a term used three times in the New Testament. It’s essential to understand that this pedagogue is not a teacher who becomes obsolete. Rather, the law continues to have value in guiding individuals toward Christ by defining sin and judgment. The frequency of its usage (three times) in the New Testament emphasizes the ongoing importance of this role in the spiritual journey.

Verses Containing G3807

1. 1 Corinthians 4:15
   "For though you have countless guides (παιδαγωγούς, paidagogous) in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel."

2. Galatians 3:24
   "So then, the law was our guardian (παιδαγωγός, paidagogos) until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith."

3. Galatians 3:25
   "But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian (παιδαγωγός, paidagogos)."

Reflection on G3807

These three occurrences of G3807 show that the law, as a pedagogue, plays a crucial role in leading individuals to Christ. The term does not suggest that the law or the teacher becomes useless after Christ’s coming. Instead, it highlights the law’s purpose in bringing awareness of sin and the need for a savior. The pedagogue’s role in guiding and instructing remains significant, as it is through this guidance that one comes to a true understanding of faith in Christ. The repetition of the term in different contexts underlines the ongoing relevance of this concept.

Steadfast: Adjective

The Meaning and Usage of G1318 (ἑδραῖος, hedraios) in the Greek Bible

The adjective G1318 (ἑδραῖος, hedraios) is used to describe something that is steadfast, firm, or immovable. This term is foundational when we consider the nature of the Torah in its role as God's unchanging law and instruction. It appears three times in Koine New Testament.

Reflection on "Steadfast" as the Torah and Its Connection to Faith

The concept of steadfastness and immovability in faith, as expressed by the term G1318, aligns with the biblical teaching found in Habakkuk 2:4: "The righteous shall live by his faith." The Hebrew word translated as "faith" in this verse is אֱמוּנָה (emunah), which conveys a sense of firmness, stability, and fidelity. This is not just a passive belief but an active, steadfast commitment to God and His commandments. The faith that the Torah speaks of is one that is unshakable and firm, much like the very foundation of the Torah itself.

Verses Containing G1318

1. 1 Corinthians 7:37
   "Nevertheless he that standeth steadfast (ἑδραῖος, hedraios) in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well."

2. 1 Corinthians 15:58
   "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast (ἑδραῖος, hedraios), unmovable (ἀμετακίνητος, ametakinetos), always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

In these verses, "steadfast" is used to emphasize the importance of firmness in one's faith and actions, which directly correlates to the nature of the Torah itself. The Torah is the steadfast foundation that guides believers in their relationship with God and their actions in the world.

Conclusion

When discussing the Torah in the context of Koine Greek, the concept of steadfastness is essential. The Torah is not just a set of teachings; it is the firm, immovable foundation of God's covenant with His people. This steadfast faith is what is described in the Hebrew Bible as אֱמוּנָה (emunah), the unshakable faith by which "the righteous shall live" (Habakkuk 2:4). As you explore the "Torah in Koine" page, remember that the Torah stands firm, unchanging, and reliable, as the basis of all teaching and interpretation.

Teaching: Noun

The Meaning and Usage of G1319 (διδαχή, didachē) in the Greek Bible

In the Greek Bible, the word translated as "teaching" or "instruction" from G1319 (διδαχή, didachē) must be understood as a core element of the Torah. Therefore, wherever the word "teaching" is used, it should be clearly indicated that this refers to the Torah. However, in some instances, this term is used to express teachings that are contrary to the Torah. In these passages, there is a warning against teachings that contrast with the true teachings of the Torah or that are based on human traditions.

List of Passages Containing G1319

Below is a list of all the passages where G1319 (διδαχή, didachē) is used, categorized into those that refer to the Torah and those that refer to teachings opposed to the Torah.

1. Referring to the Torah

1. Romans 6:17
   "But thanks be to God that you, who were once slaves of sin, have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

2. Romans 16:17
   "I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

3. 1 Corinthians 14:6
   "Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?"
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

4. 1 Corinthians 14:26
   "What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

5. 1 Timothy 1:10
   "The sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

6. 1 Timothy 4:6
   "If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

7. 2 Timothy 3:10
   "You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

8. 2 Timothy 3:16
   "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

9. 2 Timothy 4:2
   "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

10. Titus 1:9
    "He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

11. Titus 2:1
    "But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

12. Titus 2:7
    "Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

13. Titus 2:10
    "Not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

14. Titus 2:12
    "Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

15. Hebrews 6:2
    "And of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

16. 2 John 1:9
    "Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

2. Referring to Teachings Opposed to the Torah

1. Matthew 15:9
   "In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

2. Mark 7:7
   "In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

3. Colossians 2:22
   "These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

4. 1 Timothy 4:1
   "Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

5. Hebrews 13:9
   "Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

Teach: Verb

The Meaning and Usage of G1321 (διδάσκω, didaskō) in the Greek Bible

The verb G1321 (διδάσκω, didaskō) appears 98 times in the Greek Bible and carries a profound connection to the Torah, much like its noun form G1319 (διδαχή, didachē). This verb is often translated as "to teach" and, depending on the context, it can either refer to the teachings of the Torah or to teachings that stand in opposition to it. Understanding the use of G1321 in its biblical context is crucial for a correct interpretation of Scripture.

The Sermon on the Mount and Its Connection to the Torah

In the Sermon on the Mount, the phrase "opened His mouth and taught them" (Matthew 5:2) uses the verb G1321, indicating a significant act of teaching. This teaching is not merely an imparting of knowledge; it is a direct continuation of the divine instruction given in the Torah.

The Sermon on the Mount is a reflection of the event in the wilderness of Exodus, where the Lord God called Moses, Joshua, and the elders to the mountain to receive His word (Exodus 24). Just as God gave the Torah to the people of Israel through Moses on the mountain, so too does Jesus, the incarnate Torah and God Himself, teach His disciples on the mountain in the Gospel. This parallel emphasizes the continuity and fulfillment of the Torah in the teachings of Jesus.

List of Passages Containing G1321

Below is a list of passages where G1321 (διδάσκω, didaskō) is used, categorized into those that refer to the teaching of the Torah and those that refer to teachings opposed to the Torah.

1. Referring to the Teaching of the Torah

1. Matthew 5:2
   "And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:"
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah, as in the Sermon on the Mount)

2. Matthew 7:29
   "For he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

3. Matthew 28:20
   "Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

4. John 7:14
   "About the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple and began teaching."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

5. John 8:2
   "Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

6. Acts 4:2
   "Greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

7. Acts 5:21
   "And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

8. Romans 2:21
   "You then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal?"
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

9. 1 Corinthians 4:17
   "That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach them everywhere in every church."
   (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

10. 1 Timothy 4:11
    "Command and teach these things."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

11. 1 Timothy 6:2
    "Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these things."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

12. 2 Timothy 2:2
    "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

13. Titus 2:15
    "Declare these things; exhort and rebuke with all authority. Let no one disregard you."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

14. Hebrews 5:12
    "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

15. James 3:1
    "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness."
    (Referring to the teaching of the Torah)

2. Referring to Teachings Opposed to the Torah

1. Matthew 15:9
   "In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

2. Mark 7:7
   "In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

3. Colossians 2:22
   "These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

4. 1 Timothy 1:3
   "As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

5. 1 Timothy 4:1
   "Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons."
   (Referring to teachings opposed to the Torah)

Able to teach: Adjective

The Meaning and Usage of G1317 (διδακτικός, didaktikos) in the Greek Bible

In English, the word "didactic," which comes from the same root, is used to describe something that is intended to teach or instruct, often with a moral lesson. A simple way to understand G1317 is that it means "able to teach" or "apt to teach." This adjective is used to describe someone who has the ability or suitability to teach others. 

Reflection on "Apt to Teach"

The expression "apt to teach" goes beyond simply having the ability to convey information or move people emotionally. It calls us to consider whether our teaching faithfully transmits the true meaning of the Torah, the divine instruction given by God. One must ask: if an interpretation is slightly different from the true meaning of the Torah but is able to deeply move people, making them feel inspired, does this qualify as "apt to teach"? Or is it leading people away from the true path laid out by God's Word?

The ability to teach must be rooted in a deep understanding and correct interpretation of the Torah. Emotional impact alone, if disconnected from the truth of the Torah, is not sufficient. Teaching should guide others toward the true meaning of God's commandments, not merely evoke feelings or create interpretations that, while seemingly close to the truth, lead to misunderstanding or deviation from the Torah's intended message.

Verses Containing G1317

1. 1 Timothy 3:2
   "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach (διδακτικός, didaktikos)."

2. 2 Timothy 2:24
   "And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach (διδακτικός, didaktikos), patient."

In these verses, "apt to teach" is highlighted as a critical quality for leaders and servants of the Lord. It emphasizes the importance of being able to rightly divide the word of truth, faithfully passing on the teachings of the Torah. This quality should not be taken lightly, as true teaching leads others toward God’s truth, rather than merely stirring emotions or creating slightly altered interpretations.

Conclusion

True teaching, according to the biblical standard, involves not just the skill to communicate effectively but also the commitment to convey the Torah's genuine message. Being "apt to teach" means faithfully representing God's commandments and instructions, ensuring that interpretations align with the true meaning of the Torah. It’s not enough to simply move people emotionally; one must guide them according to the truth of God’s Word.