### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **desmeúō**, represented by `{{G1195}}`, is a verb meaning **to be a binder (captor)**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core definition involves the action to enchain a prisoner or to tie on a load.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{G1195}}` in scripture show two distinct applications. In Acts, it describes a literal, physical action, where Paul recounts how he persecuted the early church, **binding** both men and women to be delivered into prisons [[Acts 22:4]]. In contrast, the Gospel of Matthew uses the word figuratively. Jesus criticizes the religious leaders because they **bind** heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne and lay them on men's shoulders, referring to oppressive religious rules [[Matthew 23:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G1195}}` is used:
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō** (to pursue...to persecute): This action is directly linked with binding, as seen in Paul's statement, "I **persecuted** this way unto the death, **binding**..." [[Acts 22:4]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender...deliver (up)): This describes the result of being bound. After binding people, Paul would **deliver** them into prisons [[Acts 22:4]].
* `{{G5413}}` **phortíon** (a task or service:--burden): This is the figurative object that is bound in Matthew's gospel, where Jesus speaks of those who bind heavy **burdens** [[Matthew 23:4]].
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ** (a guarding...prison): This term identifies the destination for those who are literally bound, as Paul delivered believers into **prisons** [[Acts 22:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1195}}` lies in its dual application to both physical and spiritual states of bondage.
* **Physical Persecution:** The word is used to describe the tangible act of restraining and imprisoning individuals. It highlights the real-world persecution faced by early believers, as confessed by Paul himself [[Acts 22:4]].
* **Spiritual Oppression:** Metaphorically, `{{G1195}}` illustrates the weight of man-made religious legalism. Jesus uses it to condemn the act of placing insufferable spiritual **burdens** upon people, which is a form of spiritual captivity [[Matthew 23:4]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G1195}}` appears only twice, it carries significant weight. It powerfully conveys the concept of binding, whether it is the literal enchaining of a prisoner as an act of persecution or the figurative imposition of oppressive spiritual and legalistic loads. The word demonstrates how the same action can represent both physical restraint and spiritual oppression within the biblical narrative.
TRV