Deo (pronounced DEH-oh) is a Greek verb that primarily means “to bind,” “to tie,” or “to fasten.” The verb carries connotations of physical binding, as in the tying of a person or object, as well as metaphorical binding, such as binding in an obligation or law. It is a term frequently used in the New Testament to describe both literal and figurative forms of binding, including the binding of people with chains, the binding of Satan, or binding something under a law or curse.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: The verb δέω does not derive from another Greek word but stands independently within the language.
• Part of Speech: Verb.

Primary Meanings:

• To Bind or Tie: The most literal meaning of δέω is to bind or tie something physically. This could refer to the binding of a person with chains, the tying up of an animal, or securing an object.
• To Fasten or Secure: Similar to binding, δέω can mean to fasten something securely. This includes actions like fastening a belt or securing a door.
• To Bind in Obligation or Law: δέω is also used metaphorically to describe the act of binding someone under an obligation, law, or vow. This usage extends to binding with curses or oaths.

Scripture References

1. Matthew 12:29: “Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind (δέω) the strong man? And then he will spoil his house.”
2. Matthew 16:19: “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind (δέω) on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
3. Acts 21:11: “And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound (δέω) his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.”

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δέω as “to bind,” with primary emphasis on both physical and metaphorical binding. BDAG highlights that δέω is used in various contexts throughout the New Testament, including the binding of individuals (as in the case of Paul’s prophecy in Acts 21:11) and metaphorical binding related to spiritual authority or legal obligations (as in Matthew 16:19). The lexicon also notes the term’s usage in contexts of spiritual warfare, such as binding Satan or demonic forces.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon provides a similar description, noting that δέω is used to denote binding in a physical sense, such as tying or fastening with chains or ropes. Thayer’s expands on this by explaining the metaphorical use of the word, where δέω can refer to binding in a legal or moral sense, including the imposition of vows or obligations. Thayer’s also discusses the word’s use in the context of Jesus’ teachings on spiritual authority, where binding on earth is reflected in heavenly realms.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary adds that δέω carries significant theological implications in the New Testament, particularly in relation to the authority given to the disciples to bind and loose, as seen in Matthew 16:19. Vine’s notes that this authority reflects the power to bind in both physical and spiritual dimensions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dual use of the term in various scriptural contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance succinctly defines δέω as “to bind” or “to tie,” with reference to its widespread use in the New Testament. Strong’s emphasizes the verb’s frequent occurrence in contexts of physical binding, as well as in legal or ritualistic settings where binding is symbolic of authority or control.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Iliad”: In the Iliad, δέω is used to describe the binding of a warrior with chains or ropes during battle. The term emphasizes the physical act of restraining an enemy, often in the context of taking prisoners of war.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus employs δέω in his Histories to describe the binding of individuals under oath or law. The term is used metaphorically to convey the binding nature of legal obligations or the commitment to an oath.
3. Sophocles’ “Antigone”: In Antigone, δέω is used to describe the binding of Antigone’s brother for burial. The term is employed both literally, in the sense of securing the body, and metaphorically, to indicate the binding nature of familial duty and honor.

Summary

Deo (G1210) is a versatile Greek verb meaning “to bind,” “to tie,” or “to fasten.” Its usage spans both physical and metaphorical contexts, appearing frequently in the New Testament to describe acts of binding, whether it be physically restraining an individual or binding someone under law or spiritual authority. Deo carries significant theological weight, particularly in the teachings of Jesus regarding spiritual authority and the power to bind or loose on earth as it is in heaven. The term also has a rich history in classical Greek literature, where it is used to describe both literal acts of binding and the metaphorical binding of individuals under legal or moral obligations. Deo is a critical term for understanding the concepts of restraint, obligation, and authority within both the physical and spiritual realms.