φορτίζω

I load, burden

Definition

The verb φορτίζω means 'to load' or 'to burden,' often in a literal sense of placing a weight upon someone or something. In the New Testament, it is used metaphorically to describe imposing heavy religious or legal obligations on people. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus uses the passive form ('laden') to describe those who are weary from carrying heavy burdens, likely a reference to the exhaustive demands of legalistic interpretations of the law. In Luke 11:46, Jesus accuses the lawyers of 'loading' people with burdens hard to bear, which they themselves do not touch, highlighting hypocrisy in adding to religious requirements.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only twice in the New Testament, both in the Gospels and in contexts of Jesus addressing burdens. In Matthew 11:28, it is used passively ('those who are laden') as part of Jesus' invitation to find rest. In Luke 11:46, it is used actively, with Jesus criticizing religious leaders for burdening others with strict legal interpretations. Both instances involve a metaphorical burden related to religious practice and law.

Etymology

Derived from the noun φορτίον (phortion, G5413), meaning 'a burden' or 'load,' which itself comes from φέρω (pherō, G5342), meaning 'to bear' or 'to carry.' The verb form φορτίζω literally means 'to make into a burden' or 'to load up,' emphasizing the action of placing a weight upon someone or something.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it contrasts human-imposed religious burdens with the 'easy yoke' and 'light burden' offered by Christ (Matthew 11:30). It highlights the theme of grace versus legalism, showing how added rules can become oppressive, while Jesus offers spiritual rest. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by clarifying the nature of the burdens from which believers are called to find relief.

In first-century Jewish culture, religious teachers often added detailed interpretations and applications of the Mosaic law, creating extensive rules for daily life. These 'burdens' could be social, economic, and spiritual, going beyond the core commandments. Jesus' critique addresses this practice of adding to the law, which differed from God's original intent for a relationship based on mercy and justice.

φορτίον (phortion, G5413) — the noun for 'burden' or 'load,' the thing being carried. βαρέω (bareō, G916) — to weigh down or burden, often with a sense of heaviness or oppression. ἐπιτίθημι (epitithēmi, G2007) — to lay upon or impose, used more broadly for placing something on someone.

Word Details

Scripture References