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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies because they often encapsulate rich meanings and cultural nuances that enhance our interpretation of the scriptures. The term ὁρκίζω (horkizō) is particularly significant as it relates to the act of swearing an oath, which carries immense weight in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture. In Mark 5:7, the use of this term underscores the solemnity and seriousness of invoking divine witness, highlighting the importance of oaths in establishing trust and commitment in human relationships. The term’s implications extend beyond mere words; they reflect a deep connection to the concepts of truth, integrity, and accountability.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὁρκίζω (horkizō) [hor-KIZ-oh]

Etymology: The root of ὁρκίζω comes from the word ὅρκος (horkos), meaning “oath” or “sworn statement.” The verb conveys the act of formally swearing or making an oath, often invoking a divine witness to the truth of one’s statement or promise.

Part of Speech: Verb. It is a transitive verb, typically used in the active voice.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

To Swear an Oath: The primary meaning of ὁρκίζω is to swear an oath or make a solemn declaration. This is often done in the presence of God or in a religious context, signifying the seriousness of the commitment being made.

To Bind by an Oath: ὁρκίζω can also imply binding oneself to a promise or agreement through an oath. This reflects the understanding that oaths are not merely verbal assertions but commitments that hold moral weight.

To Invoke a Witness: Additionally, the term carries the connotation of invoking a witness, particularly God, as a guarantor of the truthfulness of the declaration. This underscores the gravity of making promises under divine scrutiny.

Exploring Similar Words

ὅρκος (horkos) [HOR-kos]: This noun means “oath.” While ὁρκίζω refers to the action of swearing, ὅρκος is the substance or content of that oath.

ὀρκωτός (orkōtos) [or-ko-TOCE]: This adjective means “sworn” or “bound by an oath.” It describes a person or condition that is under the obligation of an oath, in contrast to ὁρκίζω, which is the act of swearing.

ὀρκοματικός (orkomatikos) [or-koma-TI-kos]: This adjective means “oath-related” or “oath-taking.” It pertains to practices or ceremonies involving oaths, differing from ὁρκίζω, which focuses on the action of making an oath.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a verb, ὁρκίζω has specific morphological characteristics.

Tense, Voice, Mood:

• Present Tense: ὁρκίζω (I swear) – indicates an ongoing action.

• Aorist Tense: ὤρκισα (I swore) – denotes a completed action in the past.

• Perfect Tense: ὤρκος (I have sworn) – indicates a completed action with ongoing effects.

Voice: Active, indicating that the subject is performing the action.

Mood: Typically used in the indicative mood for stating facts.

Person and Number:

• 1st Person Singular: ὁρκίζω

• 2nd Person Singular: ὁρκίζεις

• 3rd Person Singular: ὁρκίζει

• 1st Person Plural: ὁρκίζομεν

• 2nd Person Plural: ὁρκίζετε

• 3rd Person Plural: ὁρκίζουν

Aspect: The verb can convey imperfective aspects (ongoing action) and perfective aspects (completed action).

For more insights into Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The analysis of ὁρκίζω across various Greek lexicons reveals its pivotal role in both the New Testament and classical literature. BDAG emphasizes its importance in legal and moral contexts, where oaths establish trust and accountability. Thayer’s expands on its theological implications, noting that oaths often invoke God’s presence and authority. LSJ underscores the usage of ὁρκίζω in both private and public declarations, highlighting its relevance in social contracts. Vine’s notes its frequency in discussions of faithfulness and integrity, while Moulton and Milligan explore its implications in early Christian contexts, emphasizing the seriousness of commitments made before God. This synthesis illustrates how ὁρκίζω serves as a vital term for understanding relationships and ethical obligations within the biblical narrative.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Mark 5:7: “And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure (ὁρκίζω) thee by God, that thou torment me not.”

• Matthew 26:63: “But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure (ὁρκίζω) thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.”

• Romans 1:9: “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times;”

• 1 Thessalonians 5:27: “I charge (ὁρκίζω) you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.”

• Revelation 10:5: “And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven,”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text with the Greek Word

Plato Theaetetus “He swore (ὁρκίζω) by the gods to uphold truth.”

Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics “Oaths (ὅρκος) must be honored to maintain justice.”

Herodotus Histories “They swore (ὁρκίζω) allegiance to the king.”

Septuagint Exodus “And you shall not swear (ὁρκίζω) falsely by my name.”

Septuagint Leviticus “If anyone swears (ὁρκίζω) falsely, they shall be judged.”

Septuagint Isaiah “The prophet swore (ὁρκίζω) by the word of the Lord.”

Noteworthy Summary

In conclusion, ὁρκίζω (horkizō) is a term that carries significant weight in both biblical and classical literature, reflecting the importance of oaths in establishing truth and trustworthiness. Its various meanings, along with its grammatical features and contextual applications, highlight the profound impact of promises and commitments in human interactions, particularly in relation to divine authority. By exploring ὁρκίζω, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how oaths shape ethical and moral frameworks within the biblical narrative.

Did You Know?

Cultural Significance: In ancient cultures, swearing oaths was a common practice to ensure honesty and fidelity in agreements.

Divine Witness: The act of swearing an oath often invoked God as a witness, emphasizing the gravity of the promise made.

Oaths in Law: In both ancient Greek society and the New Testament, oaths were frequently used in legal contexts to validate statements and contracts.