Skip to main content

    Teach (Didaskō)

    διδάσκω (didaskō)

    To instruct systematically — imparting knowledge, understanding, and practical skill for living.

    Greek
    Strong's G1321
    Pronunciation: did-AS-koh
    Quick Answer

    Didaskō is the Greek word for teach, meaning to provide systematic instruction. Jesus was recognized as a master teacher (didaskalos), and His teaching combined authority, clarity, and transformative power unlike any before Him.

    "For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes." — Matthew 7:29 (KJV)

    Key Verses

    Matthew 7:29

    “For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”
    Read in context

    Matthew 28:20

    “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.”
    Read in context

    2 Timothy 2:2

    “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”
    Read in context

    Strong's Concordance

    Strong's G1321 — Teach (Didaskō) (διδάσκω (didaskō))

    Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where διδάσκω (didaskō) appears.

    Open Strong's G1321

    Etymology and Original Meaning

    Didaskō means 'to teach,' 'to instruct,' or 'to direct.' It implies systematic, intentional instruction — not casual conversation but purposeful transfer of knowledge, understanding, and skill. The related noun didaskalos means 'teacher' or 'master.' Teaching in the ancient world was a respected, authoritative role — the teacher shaped the thinking, values, and conduct of students.

    Jesus the Teacher

    Jesus was repeatedly called 'Teacher' (didaskalos) — even by opponents who recognized His exceptional teaching. 'He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes' (Matthew 7:29). While scribes cited other authorities, Jesus spoke as the authority Himself. His teaching combined theological depth, practical wisdom, memorable imagery, and transformative power.

    The Great Commission and Teaching

    The Great Commission includes teaching: 'Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you' (Matthew 28:20). Evangelism without teaching produces shallow faith. The church's mandate is not merely to make converts but to make disciples — learners who are being systematically taught to obey everything Christ commanded. Teaching is the long-term work of disciple-making.

    Multiplied Teaching

    Paul's charge to Timothy establishes the multiplication principle: 'The things that thou hast heard of me... commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also' (2 Timothy 2:2). Four generations are visible: Paul → Timothy → faithful men → others. Each teacher trains teachers who train teachers. This multiplication strategy is how the church has transmitted the faith for two thousand years.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does teach mean in the Bible?

    Teach (didaskō) means systematic instruction — intentional transfer of knowledge, understanding, and practical skill for living. Jesus was the master teacher, and the Great Commission mandates ongoing teaching as central to the church's mission.

    Why is teaching important in the church?

    Teaching fulfills the Great Commission (Matthew 28:20), produces mature disciples (Ephesians 4:11-14), multiplies faithful leaders (2 Timothy 2:2), and guards against error (Titus 1:9). Without teaching, faith remains shallow and vulnerable.

    Which Bible verse uses the word "Teach (Didaskō)"?

    Matthew 7:29 — "For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes" (KJV). It also appears in Matthew 28:20, 2 Timothy 2:2.

    Why does the Greek word behind "Teach (Didaskō)" matter?

    Didaskō means 'to teach,' 'to instruct,' or 'to direct.' It implies systematic, intentional instruction — not casual conversation but purposeful transfer of knowledge, understanding, and skill. English uses one word, "Teach (Didaskō)", where the Greek διδάσκω (didaskō) carries the fuller sense: to instruct systematically — imparting knowledge, understanding, and practical skill for living.

    Related Words

    Didache
    Word (Logos)
    Wisdom
    Disciple

    Related Reading

    Continue your study with related content from across our library:

    Word Meaning

    Teach (διδάσκω (didaskō))

    To instruct, explain, and form disciples through systematic teaching of truth.

    Strong's

    Strong's G1321 — Teach

    διδάσκω (didaskō) • To instruct, explain, and form disciples through systematic teaching of truth.

    Dream Meaning

    Biblical Meaning of Wolves in a Dream (KJV)

    False teachers, hidden predators, and spiritual danger.

    Dream Meaning

    Biblical Meaning of Dogs in a Dream (KJV)

    Loyalty when tame, but also false teachers and unclean influence.

    Commentary

    Matthew 28:19 Commentary

    In-depth study • The Great Commission

    Commentary

    Matthew 28:19-20 Commentary

    In-depth study • Mission & Commission

    ← Previous

    Law (Torah)

    Next →

    Prayer

    Where to go next

    Studied the meaning of Teach (Didaskō)? Continue with these word-study and Scripture pages.