### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb δαιμονίζομαι (daimonízomai), Strong's number `{{G1139}}`, is a deponent middle voice verb derived from the noun δαίμων (daimōn, `{{G1140}}`), meaning "demon" or "divine power." In the New Testament, δαίμων consistently refers to malevolent spiritual beings. Therefore, δαιμονίζομαι signifies the state of being "demonized," "possessed by a demon," "vexed by a demon," or "under the influence/control of a demon." The middle voice construction emphasizes that the subject is experiencing the action upon themselves, indicating a passive state of affliction rather than an active participation in demonic activity. The semantic range thus centers on the suffering and subjugation of an individual to an evil spirit, manifesting in various forms of physical, mental, or spiritual distress. It describes the *condition* of being under demonic power, not the *act* of being a demon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δαιμονίζομαι appears frequently in the Synoptic Gospels, particularly in the accounts of Jesus' ministry, highlighting His authority over the spiritual realm.
* In [[Matthew 4:24]], it is used to describe those brought to Jesus who were "demon-possessed," alongside those suffering from various diseases. This verse establishes demonic possession as a distinct category of affliction.
* [[Matthew 8:16]] and [[Mark 1:32]] recount the healing of many "demon-possessed" at sunset, demonstrating Jesus' power to cast out spirits with a mere word.
* The dramatic account of the Gadarene demoniacs in [[Matthew 8:28]], [[Matthew 8:33]], [[Mark 5:15]], [[Mark 5:16]], and [[Mark 5:18]] vividly portrays the extreme manifestations of being δαιμονίζομαι: living among tombs, extraordinary strength, self-harm, and profound social alienation. The subsequent healing results in the man being found "clothed and in his right mind" ([[Mark 5:15]]), emphasizing the restoration of sanity and personhood.
* Other instances, such as the mute and blind man in [[Matthew 12:22]] and the mute man in [[Matthew 9:32]], show demonic possession manifesting as physical impediments. Jesus' casting out of the demon immediately restores speech and sight.
* The Syrophoenician woman's daughter is described as "severely demon-possessed" ([[Matthew 15:22]]), illustrating the deep distress caused by such affliction and the mother's desperate plea for Jesus' intervention.
* [[Luke 8:36]] refers back to the Gadarene incident, using the term to describe the man from whom the demons had gone out.
* In [[John 10:21]], some in the crowd question whether Jesus is "demon-possessed" (using the same term), contrasting His actions with those of a demon-afflicted person. This highlights the public's understanding of the term as indicating irrationality or madness.
Across these occurrences, the consistent pattern is Jesus' effortless authority over these spirits, delivering the afflicted and demonstrating the power of God's Kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of δαιμονίζομαι is enriched by understanding its relationship with other key terms and concepts in the New Testament:
* **δαίμων (daimōn, `{{G1140}}`):** The noun from which δαιμονίζομαι is derived. It refers to the evil spirit itself that possesses or afflicts an individual. The Gospels frequently use this term interchangeably with "unclean spirit" (πνεῦμα ἀκάθαρτον, `{{G4190}}`).
* **διάβολος (diabolos, `{{G1228}}`):** The Devil or Satan, the chief adversary and leader of the demonic forces. While δαίμων refers to individual evil spirits, διάβολος is the overarching power behind them.
* **πνεῦμα ἀκάθαρτον (pneuma akatharton, `{{G4190}}`):** "Unclean spirit." This phrase is often used synonymously with δαίμων in the Gospels to describe the same entities that cause individuals to be δαιμονίζομαι.
* **Exorcism:** The act of casting out demons, a prominent feature of Jesus' ministry. Jesus' power over those who were δαιμονίζομαι was a clear sign of His divine authority.
* **Healing:** Demonic possession was often linked to physical ailments (blindness, muteness) or mental disturbances. Thus, the act of casting out demons was frequently accompanied by physical and mental restoration, blurring the lines between "healing" and "deliverance."
* **Kingdom of God:** Jesus' ability to cast out demons was presented as undeniable proof that the Kingdom of God had arrived, conquering the realm of Satan ([[Luke 11:20]]).
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of δαιμονίζομαι in the Gospels carry profound theological significance:
* **Confirmation of Spiritual Evil:** The consistent portrayal of individuals being "demon-possessed" affirms the reality of a spiritual realm inhabited by malevolent forces. It challenges purely psychological or physiological explanations for all forms of human suffering, indicating a direct spiritual assault.
* **Jesus' Supreme Authority:** Jesus' effortless and authoritative casting out of demons is a cornerstone of His messianic identity. It demonstrates His unique power over all creation, including the spiritual adversaries. This authority is not merely human but divine, signifying His role as the Son of God.
* **Inauguration of the Kingdom:** The defeat of demonic power through Jesus' ministry is a tangible sign that the Kingdom of God has invaded and is triumphing over the kingdom of Satan. Every act of deliverance from those who were δαιμονίζομαι was a visible manifestation of God's redemptive work breaking into the world.
* **Compassion and Deliverance:** Jesus' interactions with the demon-possessed are characterized by profound compassion. He does not fear or condemn them but acts as a deliverer, restoring them to wholeness and community. This highlights God's desire to free humanity from all forms of bondage.
* **Spiritual Warfare:** The prevalence of δαιμονίζομαι in the Gospels introduces the theme of spiritual warfare, a reality that the early church would continue to confront. It underscores that the Christian life involves a struggle against unseen forces of evil.
### Summary
The Greek verb δαιμονίζομαι (`{{G1139}}`) precisely describes the state of being afflicted or possessed by a demon. Its consistent use in the Gospels highlights the reality of spiritual evil and, more importantly, the unparalleled authority of Jesus Christ over these malevolent forces. Jesus' acts of casting out demons from those who were δαιμονίζομαι served as irrefutable proof of His divine power, the inauguration of God's Kingdom, and His compassionate mission to deliver humanity from all forms of bondage and suffering. The term underscores the profound spiritual dimension of human affliction and the triumph of God's redemptive power in the person of Jesus.
TRV