ζυγός

a yoke, heavy burden, pair of scales

Definition

The Greek word ζυγός primarily means a 'yoke,' a wooden beam used to join two draft animals for pulling a load. In the New Testament, it is used both literally for the physical yoke (1 Timothy 6:1) and metaphorically. The most significant metaphorical use describes a 'burden' or 'obligation,' such as the oppressive requirements of the Mosaic law (Acts 15:10, Galatians 5:1). In a positive sense, Jesus uses it to describe his own teaching as an 'easy' and 'light' yoke for his followers (Matthew 11:29-30). In Revelation 6:5, it refers to a 'pair of scales,' symbolizing scarcity and economic justice.

Biblical Usage

ζυγός is used six times in the New Testament, appearing in Gospels, Acts, and Epistles. Its usage splits between literal and metaphorical senses. The literal sense appears in 1 Timothy 6:1 regarding slaves under a 'yoke' of servitude. The dominant metaphorical use describes spiritual or legal burdens: the 'yoke' of the law in Acts 15:10 and Galatians 5:1, contrasted with the 'easy yoke' of discipleship to Christ in Matthew 11:29-30. In Revelation 6:5, it uniquely denotes a balance scale.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *yeug-, meaning 'to join.' This root gives us the Greek ζεύγνυμι (zeugnymi, G2218 - to yoke) and is cognate with Latin *iugum* and English 'yoke' and 'join.' The core concept of 'joining' or 'linking' underlies all its meanings, from joining animals to joining balanced scales or linking a person to a burden or teaching.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant for understanding law, grace, and discipleship. It contrasts the heavy, burdensome 'yoke' of legalistic obedience (the Law) with the 'easy yoke' of relationship with and submission to Christ (Matthew 11:29-30). Paul uses it as a powerful metaphor for Christian liberty, urging believers not to submit again to a 'yoke of slavery' (Galatians 5:1). It encapsulates the transition from obligation to grace.

In the ancient world, a yoke was a common, tangible symbol of submission, labor, and partnership. For Jewish listeners, the 'yoke of the law' was a known phrase for the obligation to Torah. Jesus' audience would immediately understand the imagery of a burdensome yoke versus a well-fitted, manageable one used by a skilled carpenter. The scales in Revelation 6:5 evoke imagery of market justice and divine measurement.

φορτίον (phortion, G5413) — a burden or load, often used for a weight to be carried, but lacks the 'joining' or 'pairing' connotation of a yoke. ἁρμός (harmos, G719) — a joint or fastening, focuses on the point of connection rather than the tool for joining or the resulting burden.

Word Details

Scripture References