1. Overview

Βαρέω (Bareō) is a Greek verb that primarily means “to weigh down” or “to burden.” The word is derived from the root word βάρος (baros), which means “weight” or “burden.” Bareō can be used both in a literal sense, such as physically weighing something down, and in a metaphorical sense, such as burdening someone with responsibilities or worries. The word encapsulates the idea of heaviness, whether it be physical, emotional, or psychological.

2. Lexical Details

In BDAG (Bauer-Danker Lexicon), Bareō is described as a verb that means “to burden, weigh down, or depress.” It notes that the word is often used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe the emotional or spiritual weight that a person might carry. Thayer’s Lexicon also supports this interpretation, adding that Bareō can refer to both physical and mental oppression. Vine’s Expository Dictionary agrees, emphasizing that the word often appears in contexts where individuals are overwhelmed by the pressures of life. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon) expands on this by noting that in classical Greek, Bareō could be used to describe anything that makes a situation more difficult or burdensome.

Biblical references:

• Luke 21:34: “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down (bareō) with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.” Here, Bareō is used metaphorically to describe the spiritual and emotional burden that can distract believers from being watchful.
• 2 Corinthians 1:8: “For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened (bareō) beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself.” In this verse, Paul uses Bareō to convey the intense emotional and psychological weight of his afflictions.

3. Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, Bareō was used to describe both literal and metaphorical burdens.

1. Homer, “Iliad”: In the epic poem, Bareō is used to describe the physical weight of armor and the emotional weight of grief experienced by the warriors.
2. Sophocles, “Oedipus Rex”: The term is used metaphorically to describe the burden of guilt and fate that weighs down the characters, especially Oedipus.
3. Plato, “Republic”: In this philosophical work, Bareō is used to discuss the burden of leadership and the responsibilities that weigh heavily on the ruler’s shoulders.

4. Summary

The word Βαρέω (Bareō) carries with it the connotation of weight and burden, whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual. Its usage in the New Testament emphasizes the metaphorical weight of sin, responsibility, and life’s challenges that can overwhelm individuals. In classical Greek literature, the word is used similarly to describe both literal and figurative burdens. Understanding Bareō provides deeper insight into the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by individuals, both in ancient times and in the biblical context. The word serves as a reminder of the various weights we carry in life and the importance of being vigilant in managing these burdens.