διώκω

I pursue, persecute

Definition

The verb διώκω primarily means 'to pursue' or 'to chase after,' often with intensity or hostility. In a positive or neutral sense, it can describe earnestly striving for a goal, such as peace or righteousness (Romans 9:30, 1 Corinthians 14:1). However, its most prominent usage in the New Testament is in the negative sense of 'to persecute,' meaning to harass, oppress, or pursue with hostile intent, especially for religious reasons, as seen when Jesus speaks of those persecuted for righteousness' sake (Matthew 5:10-12). This dual usage highlights the word's range from active pursuit to aggressive oppression.

Biblical Usage

This word is used 43 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels and Pauline epistles. In the Gospels, it almost exclusively refers to the persecution of Jesus' followers by religious or political authorities (e.g., Matthew 5:44, Luke 21:12). Paul uses it both for his own past persecution of the church (Galatians 1:13) and for the persecution believers endure (2 Corinthians 4:9). He also employs the positive sense of 'pursuing' virtues like love and righteousness (1 Timothy 6:11). The usage pattern shows a shift from describing external hostility to also encompassing the Christian's active pursuit of godly character.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek verb διώκω, meaning 'to put to flight,' 'pursue,' or 'chase.' It is related to words suggesting speed or pressing forward. The core idea is of vigorous, directed motion toward an object, which in context develops the dual meanings of hostile pursuit (persecution) and earnest striving (pursuit).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it captures the tension of the Christian experience: believers are called to actively 'pursue' godliness, peace, and love (Hebrews 12:14, 1 Corinthians 14:1), while simultaneously being prepared to be 'persecuted' for their faith as a mark of identification with Christ (Matthew 5:10-12). Understanding this dual meaning enriches passages about discipleship, suffering, and spiritual growth, showing that following Christ involves both a proactive chase after holiness and endurance under hostile pursuit from the world.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, 'pursuit' (διώκω) was a common concept in military, legal, and athletic contexts—chasing an enemy, prosecuting a case, or striving for a prize. The New Testament's use for religious persecution reflects the real social and legal hostility early Christians faced from both Jewish authorities and the Roman state, which viewed their refusal to honor imperial cults as subversive. The positive use to 'pursue' virtue would resonate with Greek philosophical ideals of striving for excellence.

καταδιώκω (katadiōkō, G2614) — to pursue closely or hunt down, an intensified form implying relentless pursuit. θλίβω (thlibō, G2346) — to press, oppress, or afflict; focuses more on the pressure and tribulation caused by persecution rather than the act of chasing. μιμέομαι (mimeomai, G3401) — to imitate or follow as an example; relates to the positive 'pursuit' of godly character by emulation.

Word Details

Scripture References