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Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words such as ἐπίορκος (epíorkos) is crucial for grasping the depth and nuances of ancient texts. This term is particularly significant as it deals with the concept of perjury or being false under oath. It provides insight into the moral and legal standards of ancient Greek society and its intersection with Biblical ethics, highlighting the gravity of truthfulness and the severe consequences of dishonesty.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἐπίορκος (epíorkos) [eh-PEE-or-kos]
- Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and ὄρκος (orkos, “oath”), ἐπίορκος describes a person who swears falsely or breaks an oath.
- Part of Speech: Adjective; second declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- A perjurer
- A false swearer
- One who breaks an oath
Similar Words: The word ψευδόμαρτυς (pseudómartys) [pseu-DOH-mar-tis] refers to “a false witness” and focuses on the act of providing false testimony, whereas ἐπίορκος is broader, describing someone who is generally untrustworthy under oath. ὄμνυμι (ómnūmi) [OHM-noo-mee] simply means “to swear” or “take an oath,” without the negative connotation of breaking it.
Further Insights: ἐπίορκος is an adjective that follows the second declension pattern in Ancient Greek. Its use primarily describes someone who is guilty of perjury or breaking an oath. Below is the declension table for ἐπίορκος:
| Case / Number | Masculine (Singular) | Masculine (Plural) |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἐπίορκος (epíorkos) | ἐπίορκοι (epíorkoi) |
| Genitive | ἐπιορκου (epíorkou) | ἐπιορκων (epíorkōn) |
| Dative | ἐπιορκῳ (epíorkō) | ἐπιορκοις (epíorkois) |
| Accusative | ἐπίορκον (epíorkon) | ἐπιορκους (epíorkous) |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Describes ἐπίορκος as “a perjurer” or “one who swears falsely,” emphasizing its application in legal and moral contexts where the integrity of one’s word is vital.
- Thayers: Interprets ἐπίορκος as “a false swearer,” indicating a broader application of dishonesty and perjury, particularly in legal and ethical discussions.
- Vines: Notes that ἐπίορκος is associated with perjury and breaking oaths, reflecting its relevance in both civic and religious law.
- LSJ: Lists ἐπίορκος as “one who breaks an oath,” referencing its use in classical texts discussing moral philosophy and law.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐπίορκος as “a false swearer,” highlighting its negative implications in both secular and religious contexts.
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 5:33: “Again, ye have heard that it hath been said of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself (ἐπιορκήσεις), but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Laws | “The one who is found to be a perjurer (ἐπίορκος) shall be punished severely by the laws.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “It is the part of a just man not to be a perjurer (ἐπίορκος).” |
| Demosthenes | Against Midias | “A man who becomes a perjurer (ἐπίορκος) damages both his own honor and that of the city.” |
| Septuagint | Zechariah 8:17 | “And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbor; and love no false oath (ἐπιορκήματα).” |
| Septuagint | Leviticus 19:12 | “And ye shall not swear falsely (ἐπιορκήσεις) by my name, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God.” |
| Septuagint | Ecclesiastes 5:4 | “Better it is that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay (ἐπιορκήσῃς).” |
Summary of ἐπίορκος (G1965)
The Greek word ἐπίορκος (epíorkos) describes someone who commits perjury or breaks an oath. Derived from ἐπί (“upon”) and ὄρκος (“oath”), it conveys the gravity of perjury, both in ancient Greek culture and Biblical ethics. The word’s consistent use in both classical literature and scripture underlines the critical importance placed on honesty and the sacredness of oaths, serving as a stern reminder of the moral, legal, and spiritual consequences of breaking one’s word.
Did You Know?
In ancient Greece, being labeled as ἐπίορκος was not just a legal accusation but a serious social stigma. Oaths were often taken in the name of gods, and breaking them could invoke divine retribution. Thus, perjury was considered an offense against both human law and the divine order, making it one of the gravest moral breaches of the time.
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