The Greek word epíorkos, represented by G1965, defines a perjured person or a forswearer. Its etymology, from ἐπί (on) and ὅρκος (oath), directly points to the act of being false while under an oath. This specific term is rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting a very particular type of falsehood.
The sole use of G1965 is found in 1 Timothy 1:10, where it is included in a list of serious sins for which the law is intended. The verse catalogs various transgressions that are "contrary to sound doctrine." By being listed among these acts, a perjured person is identified as someone whose actions are fundamentally opposed to righteous living and biblical teaching. The context places this sin alongside other grave offenses, emphasizing the high value placed on truthfulness and the integrity of a sworn oath.
Several related words appear in the same list as G1965, providing context for the severity of the offense:
- G5583 pseústēs (liar): Defined as a falsifier. This term is placed immediately before "perjured persons" in 1 Timothy 1:10, indicating that perjury is a specific and egregious form of lying.
- G4205 pórnos (whoremonger): Defined as a (male) prostitute or debauchee. Its inclusion in the list at 1 Timothy 1:10 frames perjury as a serious moral failing.
- G733 arsenokoítēs (abuser of self with mankind): Defined as a sodomite. This term's proximity in 1 Timothy 1:10 further classifies perjury as a significant transgression against divine law.
- G405 andrapodistḗs (menstealer): Defined as an enslaver. The presence of this word in 1 Timothy 1:10 illustrates that breaking a sacred oath is condemned alongside actions that violate human freedom and dignity.
The theological weight of G1965 is centered on the sanctity of truth and vows.
- Contempt for Sound Doctrine: Its singular mention in 1 Timothy 1:10 explicitly categorizes being a "perjured person" as something that is "contrary to sound doctrine," linking the act directly to ungodliness and sin.
- Violation of an Oath: The word's definition as a "forswearer" underscores the seriousness of making a vow, which often invokes God as a witness. To be perjured is therefore an act of deceit that profanes a sacred commitment.
- Association with Lawlessness: By being included in a list of behaviors for which law is made, perjury is marked as an act of lawlessness that disrupts social and divine order.
In summary, G1965 is a precise term for a perjured person, someone who intentionally lies under a solemn oath. Though it appears only once, its placement in 1 Timothy 1:10 among a catalog of severe sins reveals the profound biblical importance of keeping one's word. The term serves as a stark reminder that falsehood, particularly when expressed as a broken vow, is fundamentally contrary to the nature of God and sound Christian teaching.
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