ἐμβατεύω
embateúō
G1687 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To enter into, to go in; figuratively, to investigate, penetrate, or interfere in matters, especially those that are private or restricted. In context, may carry a connotation of entering into realms or domains where one does not belong, sometimes implying presumptuousness or unauthorized access.
Semantic Range
to enter, to go in, to penetrate (physically or intellectually), to investigate closely, to intrude (especially in a figurative or unauthorized sense), to explore, to engage in visionary or speculative practices
Root / Etymology
From ἐν ('in, into') and a derivative of the root βαινω ('to go, to step'), specifically related to the verbal base βᾰ- (basis: 'a going, a step'). Formed as an intensive compound, paralleling ἐμβαίνω ('to step in'), but with distinct nuance in usage.
Historical & Contextual Notes
Attested rarely in extant Greek literature, with primary use in Koine and Hellenistic sources. In Colossians 2:18, ἐμβατεύω is used in a figurative sense to denote entering into visionary or mystical experiences (or investigations) that may overstep proper bounds. The term differs from the more common ἐμβαίνω ('enter, go in') by emphasizing entry into specific (often restricted) spheres—whether spatial, mental, or spiritual—and may imply undue boldness or presumption. In Greek philosophical and rhetorical writings, related compounds can denote unauthorized inquiry or meddling. Standard English renderings such as 'intrude' or 'invade' capture some, but not all, of the nuance—the sense is not always physical but can include intellectual or spiritual realms. The concept of entering where one is not permitted is central. Classical attestation is minimal; the word and its derivatives become more prominent in later Hellenistic and Koine Greek. No direct equivalent in Hebrew Bible usage; the term is distinctive for mystical or speculative contexts in later Jewish and early Christian texts.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἐν and a presumed derivative of the base of βάσις; equivalent to ἐμβαίνω; to intrude on (figuratively):--intrude into.
Root Family
ἐμβατεύω (embateuō) — to go in, to enter, to step into, to penetrate, to intrude
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1687-01 |
ἐμβατεύων | embateuon | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM M SG |
intruding | entering into | entering into | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1687-01 |
Colossians 2:18 | ἐμβατεύων | embateuon | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM M SG |
intruding | entering into | entering into |