### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) is a noun derived from horkos (`{{G3727}}`, "oath") and related to the verb omnyō (`{{G3660}}`, "to swear, take an oath"). Its core meaning denotes a "solemn oath" or "sworn declaration." It emphasizes the act of making an oath, particularly one that is binding and carries the weight of divine attestation. The term implies a formal, often public, affirmation that invokes a higher power as witness and guarantor of truthfulness. This makes the declaration unchangeable and inviolable, as the one swearing places themselves under potential divine judgment if the oath is broken. It conveys a strong sense of certainty and commitment, distinguishing such a declaration from a mere statement or promise.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) appears exclusively in the New Testament, specifically within the Epistle to the Hebrews. Its three occurrences are pivotal to the author's argument concerning the superiority of Christ's priesthood:
* In [[Hebrews 7:20]], the author contrasts the Levitical priesthood, which was established "without an oath" (οὐ χωρὶς ὁρκωμοσίας), with Christ's priesthood.
* [[Hebrews 7:21]] continues this contrast, explicitly stating that Christ became a priest "with an oath" (μετὰ ὁρκωμοσίας), citing the divine declaration from [[Psalm 110:4]]: "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, 'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'" This divine horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) is the foundation for the eternal and unchangeable nature of Christ's priestly office.
* Finally, in [[Hebrews 7:28]], the author summarizes: "For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever." Here, "the word of the oath" (ὁ λόγος τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας) refers back to the sworn declaration of God, emphasizing that Christ's priesthood is not based on human lineage or temporary regulations, but on an immutable divine decree. The consistent use of horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) throughout this passage underscores the divine guarantee and the unalterable character of God's promise regarding His Son's eternal high priesthood.
### Related Words & Concepts
* horkos (`{{G3727}}`): The direct root noun meaning "oath." While horkos refers to the oath itself, horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) often highlights the *act* of swearing or the *solemn declaration* made under oath.
* omnyō (`{{G3660}}`): The verb "to swear, take an oath." This describes the action of making the horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`).
* horkizō (`{{G3726}}`): "To put under oath, adjure." This verb signifies the act of causing someone to swear.
* diathēkē (`{{G1242}}`): "Covenant, testament." Oaths often serve to ratify or strengthen covenants, as seen in God's oath to Abraham in establishing His covenant (cf. [[Genesis 22:16-18]]).
* epangelia (`{{G1860}}`): "Promise." God's oaths are frequently linked to His promises, providing an unshakeable certainty for their fulfillment. The oath concerning Christ's priesthood secures the promise of His eternal intercession.
* ametathetos (`{{G276}}`): "Immutable, unchangeable." This concept is explicitly connected to God's oath in [[Hebrews 6:17]], where God's "unchangeable character of his purpose" is demonstrated by an oath, providing "strong encouragement" for believers.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) is profound, particularly in its singular application to the priesthood of Jesus Christ in Hebrews. The repeated emphasis that Christ's priesthood was established "with an oath" highlights its unparalleled superiority and divine authority over the Levitical system, which lacked such a divine guarantee.
This divine oath underscores several critical theological truths:
1. **Immutability and Eternity:** God's oath ensures the unchangeable and eternal nature of Christ's high priesthood. Unlike mortal priests who died and had to be replaced, Christ's priesthood, being secured by an oath from God, is "forever" ([[Hebrews 7:21]], [[Hebrews 7:24]]). This provides ultimate stability and certainty for believers' salvation.
2. **Divine Faithfulness:** The oath demonstrates the absolute faithfulness and unwavering commitment of God to His redemptive plan. When God swears an oath, He binds Himself by His own character, as there is no one greater by whom to swear ([[Hebrews 6:13]]). This provides a "strong encouragement" for those who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before them ([[Hebrews 6:18]]).
3. **Superiority of the New Covenant:** The priesthood established by horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) results in a "better covenant" ([[Hebrews 7:22]]). Christ, as the High Priest made perfect forever by an oath ([[Hebrews 7:28]]), is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them ([[Hebrews 7:25]]). The oath is the divine seal on the new covenant's efficacy and permanence.
### Summary
horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) denotes a solemn "oath" or "sworn declaration," emphasizing its binding and unchangeable nature due to divine attestation. Its exclusive use in the Epistle to the Hebrews is crucial for understanding the unique and superior character of Jesus Christ's high priesthood. The author repeatedly stresses that Christ's priesthood was established "with an oath" by God Himself, quoting [[Psalm 110:4]]. This divine horkōmosía (`{{G3728}}`) sets Christ's ministry apart from the temporary and flawed Levitical system, guaranteeing its immutability, eternity, and perfection. It serves as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and provides the unshakeable foundation for the new covenant, ensuring the permanent efficacy of Christ's intercession for all believers.
TRV