ἀκυρόω

I annul, make of no effect, cancel

Definition

The verb ἀκυρόω means to annul, invalidate, or render something without force or authority. It describes the act of making a law, command, or promise legally or morally void. In the Gospels, it refers to human tradition being used to nullify God's direct commandment (Matthew 15:6, Mark 7:13). In Paul's writing, it signifies that a later, divinely established covenant cannot cancel a prior, legally ratified one (Galatians 3:17).

Biblical Usage

This word is used three times in the New Testament, always in contexts of authority and validity. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 15:6, Mark 7:13), Jesus uses it to condemn the Pharisees for using their 'tradition' to invalidate the direct command of God to honor one's parents. In Galatians 3:17, Paul employs it theologically, arguing that the Law given 430 years after God's promise to Abraham cannot annul or set aside that prior covenant.

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with the verb κυρόω (kyroō), which means 'to confirm,' 'ratify,' or 'make valid.' Literally, it means 'to un-ratify' or 'to de-authorize.' Its root shares a connection with κύριος (kyrios, 'lord'), implying the removal of authoritative force.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding biblical authority and covenant theology. It highlights the supreme authority of God's direct word over human religious tradition. In Galatians, it defends the doctrine of salvation by promise (grace) against any notion that the Mosaic Law could nullify it, reinforcing the permanence and priority of God's covenant promises. Understanding this term enriches reading by clarifying conflicts between divine and human authority.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept had strong legal and contractual connotations. To 'annul' a will, treaty, or decree was a formal act. Jesus' usage critiques a specific Jewish practice (Corban) where a vow to the temple could legally override the obligation to support parents, showing how religious legalism could subvert core moral law.

καταργέω (katargeō, G2673) — emphasizes rendering something inoperative or powerless, often in a broader sense. λύω (lyō, G3089) — means to loose or dissolve, often a bond or law.

Word Details

Scripture References