Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as they offer deeper insight into the cultural, ethical, and spiritual contexts of the New Testament. The Greek word ἐπιορκέω (epiorkeō) is significant because it deals with the concept of perjury, breaking an oath, or swearing falsely. This word provides a lens through which we can understand ancient Greek and Biblical views on honesty, integrity, and the moral implications of one’s words and promises.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιορκέω (epiorkeō) [eh-pee-or-KEH-oh]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “over”) and ὄρκος (orkos, “oath”), ἐπιορκέω refers to the act of swearing falsely or breaking an oath.
• Part of Speech: Verb; Present Active Indicative.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To swear falsely
• To break an oath
• To commit perjury

Similar Words: The word ὄμνυμι (omnūmi) [OHM-noo-mee] means “to swear” or “to take an oath,” but without the negative connotation of breaking it. Another related term is ψευδομαρτυρέω (pseudomartyreō) [pseu-do-mar-ty-REH-oh], which means “to bear false witness.” While ἐπιορκέω focuses on the act of breaking a sworn oath, ψευδομαρτυρέω specifically addresses lying under oath or providing false testimony.

Further Insights: ἐπιορκέω is a verb that follows standard conjugation patterns in Ancient Greek. It is a compound of ἐπί (“upon”) and ὄρκος (“oath”), signifying the act of going against an oath or making a false oath. Below is the conjugation table for ἐπιορκέω in the Present Active Indicative:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπιορκέω as “to swear falsely” or “to commit perjury,” emphasizing the legal and ethical implications of breaking a sworn promise or lying under oath.
• Thayers: Interprets ἐπιορκέω as “to forswear oneself,” indicating the act of not keeping an oath or committing perjury, and highlights its usage in contexts where truthfulness is expected.
• Vines: Notes that ἐπιορκέω is associated with violating an oath and is often mentioned in contexts related to legal or moral transgressions.
• LSJ: Lists ἐπιορκέω as “to break an oath” or “to commit perjury,” with references in classical Greek texts that discuss law, ethics, and civic duty.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes ἐπιορκέω as “to swear falsely,” pointing to its negative connotation of dishonesty and the moral consequences of such actions.

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

Summary of ἐπιορκέω (G1964)

The Greek word ἐπιορκέω (epiorkeō) conveys the act of swearing falsely, breaking an oath, or committing perjury. It is derived from ἐπί (“upon”) and ὄρκος (“oath”), illustrating a concept that carries significant moral and legal weight in both ancient Greek culture and Biblical teachings. The word is consistently used to highlight the ethical gravity of keeping one’s word and the consequences of dishonesty. The discussions of ἐπιορκέω in classical Greek literature and Biblical texts emphasize the importance of truthfulness and integrity, crucial elements in both civic and spiritual life.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek society, breaking an oath was considered not just a personal fault but a violation against the gods, who were believed to witness all oaths. This explains why ἐπιορκέω was such a severe offense; it wasn’t merely a legal matter but a profound moral failure that could invoke divine displeasure.