ὁρκίζω

I adjure by, charge solemnly by

Definition

The verb ὁρκίζω means to adjure, command, or charge someone solemnly, often invoking a higher authority or sacred name to compel obedience. It carries the sense of a binding, formal charge, as seen when the demon in Mark 5:7 adjures Jesus by God not to torment him. In Acts 19:13, it describes the attempt by Jewish exorcists to command evil spirits by invoking the name of Jesus. A slightly softer, more urgent sense appears in 1 Thessalonians 5:27, where Paul charges the believers by the Lord to have his letter read to all.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used in three distinct New Testament contexts, each showing a solemn charge. In Mark 5:7, it is used by a demonic power in a plea. In Acts 19:13, it describes a failed ritualistic command by unauthorized exorcists. In 1 Thessalonians 5:27, it is used by an apostle to give a weighty, binding instruction to a church, emphasizing the letter's importance.

Etymology

Derived from the noun ὅρκος (horkos, G3727), meaning 'oath.' The verb ὁρκίζω literally means 'to put under oath' or 'to cause to swear,' stemming from the practice of invoking a deity or sacred object to bind an agreement or command.

Semantic Range

This word highlights the power and authority associated with sacred names, particularly the name of Jesus. In Mark 5:7 and Acts 19:13, it shows that spiritual authority is not a mere formula but resides in the person and rightful authority of Christ. Paul's use in 1 Thessalonians 5:27 underscores the binding nature of apostolic instruction as given under the Lord's authority, enriching our view of Scripture's solemn charge to the church.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, adjuring someone by a god or sacred name was a serious act, believed to invoke that power to enforce the command. This differs from a modern simple request, carrying a weight of ritual obligation and potential spiritual consequence if disobeyed, as seen in the failed exorcism in Acts 19:13-16.

ἐντέλλομαι (entellomai, G1781) — to command or order, often with less emphasis on a sacred oath; παραγγέλλω (parangellō, G3853) — to command, charge, or announce, typically in a military or instructional context without the ritual oath element.

Word Details

Scripture References