Brief Overview of ἐξορκίζω (Strong’s G1844: exorkízō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital for Biblical studies as they provide deeper insights into the text’s original meaning. The Greek word ἐξορκίζω (exorkízō) holds particular significance in the New Testament, as it pertains to the practice of exorcism, oath-taking, and solemn entreaty. Its usage and meaning reveal much about early Christian practices, the perception of spiritual forces, and the ancient Greek understanding of invoking or commanding through oaths.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐξορκίζω, transliterated as exorkízō [ex-or-KEE-zoh]
• Etymology: Derived from ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and ὄρκος (horkos, “oath”), meaning “to adjure,” “to charge under oath,” or “to command solemnly.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; active voice, future middle indicative form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To adjure, command solemnly or under oath
• To exorcise or cast out spirits
• To bind by an oath or to make someone swear

Similar Words: ἐξορκίζω (exorkízō) compared to ὁρκίζω (horkízō) [hor-KEE-zoh], which also means “to put under oath” or “to swear.” However, ὁρκίζω focuses more on the legal or formal swearing of an oath, whereas ἐξορκίζω extends to the act of exorcism, involving a command or adjuration to spirits. Another related term is ἐπιτάσσω (epitássō) [ep-ee-TAS-so], meaning “to order” or “to command,” which lacks the aspect of oath or spiritual binding present in ἐξορκίζω.

Further Insights: ἐξορκίζω is a verb that emphasizes the act of invoking a higher power or authority when commanding or exorcising. Its usage in both religious and secular contexts shows the importance of oaths and solemn declarations in the ancient world. The term’s morphology suggests a root in formal, binding speech acts.

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Describes ἐξορκίζω as “to adjure” or “to command under oath,” particularly in contexts where spiritual entities or forces are involved. It is often used in the sense of commanding evil spirits to depart.

Thayers: Defines ἐξορκίζω as “to cause someone to swear” or “to exorcise.” This lexicon points out its usage in the New Testament in connection with expelling demons or evil spirits by invoking a higher authority.

Vines: Emphasizes the meaning of ἐξορκίζω as “to bind by oath” or “to exorcise,” highlighting its usage in Christian and Jewish practices of adjuration. It is often linked with spiritual authority and solemn commands.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon explains ἐξορκίζω as “to adjure” or “to exorcise,” with classical references to its use in legal or sacred contexts where binding declarations or commands are made.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξορκίζω as “to adjure” or “to exorcise,” associating it primarily with acts of casting out spirits or making solemn charges under oath in early Christian contexts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 19:13: “Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure [ἐξορκίζομεν] you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξορκίζω (G1844: exorkízō)

The Greek word ἐξορκίζω (Strong’s G1844), meaning “to adjure” or “to exorcise,” is a powerful term in the New Testament and classical Greek literature, indicating a command made under oath or through spiritual authority. It has a significant place in Christian texts, especially in the context of exorcism and invoking divine authority. Understanding this word is essential for exploring early Christian practices, spiritual warfare, and the cultural emphasis on solemn declarations.

Did You Know?

The term ἐξορκίζω was not only used for exorcism in ancient times but also played a role in binding legal and political agreements. It reflects how the ancient Greeks and early Christians viewed the power of words when invoking the divine or commanding spiritual forces.