### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`) derives from the noun ὄχλος (ochlos, `{{G3793}}`), meaning "a crowd" or "multitude." This etymological root is crucial for understanding its core semantic range. Initially, ὀχλέω would have conveyed the idea of "to act as a mob" or "to be troubled by a crowd." By extension, its primary meaning in the New Testament context shifts to "to harass," "to vex," "to trouble," or "to annoy." It implies a persistent, burdensome, and often overwhelming form of disturbance, much like being pressed or disturbed by a disorderly multitude. The term suggests an external source of affliction, causing distress or agitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* [[Luke 6:18]]: "and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured."
In this singular occurrence, the passive participle "τοὺς ὀχλουμένους" (tous ochloumenous) describes individuals who were "being vexed" or "being harassed" by unclean spirits. The context is Jesus' healing ministry, where great multitudes came from all over to hear Him and be healed of their diseases and those "troubled by unclean spirits." The use of ὀχλέω here is significant; it does not necessarily imply full demonic possession, but rather a state of persistent, oppressive harassment or affliction caused by malevolent spiritual entities. It vividly portrays the suffering inflicted upon individuals by these spirits, indicating a continuous state of being bothered, disturbed, and tormented. Jesus' ability to cure these individuals underscores His supreme authority over all forms of spiritual oppression.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the noun ὄχλος (ochlos, `{{G3793}}`), the root from which ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`) is derived. This connection emphasizes the idea of being overwhelmed or pressed upon, akin to the experience of being in a dense, perhaps unruly, crowd.
Other Greek terms that convey various aspects of trouble, affliction, or suffering, but with distinct nuances, include:
* θλῖψις (thlipsis, `{{G2347}}`): tribulation, pressure, affliction, often from external circumstances.
* ταράσσω (tarassō, `{{G5015}}`): to trouble, disturb, stir up, often referring to mental or emotional agitation.
* κακόω (kakoō, `{{G2559}}`): to harm, injure, treat badly, or afflict.
* βασανίζω (basanizō, `{{G928}}`): to torment, torture, or distress severely.
While these words describe various forms of suffering, ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`) specifically carries the connotation of being persistently troubled or harassed by an external, often overwhelming, force, particularly apt for describing demonic activity.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, the use of ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`) in [[Luke 6:18]] carries profound theological significance. It sheds light on the nature of demonic influence and spiritual warfare. The term "vexed by unclean spirits" suggests that not all demonic activity manifests as full possession; rather, it can involve a persistent, harassing, and oppressive presence that troubles individuals. This highlights the insidious and pervasive nature of spiritual evil, which seeks to disturb and afflict humanity.
Furthermore, the passage emphasizes the comprehensive scope of Jesus' redemptive work. He comes not only to heal physical ailments but also to liberate those suffering from spiritual bondage and harassment. His power to "cure" those "vexed" by unclean spirits demonstrates His divine authority and sovereignty over all malevolent forces. This serves as a powerful testament to Christ's role as the deliverer and the ultimate victor over the powers of darkness, offering hope and liberation to those afflicted by spiritual oppression.
### Summary
The Greek verb ὀχλέω (ochléō, `{{G3791}}`), rooted in the word for "crowd," signifies "to harass," "to vex," or "to trouble" with a sense of persistent, overwhelming pressure. Its sole New Testament appearance in [[Luke 6:18]] describes individuals "vexed by unclean spirits," portraying a state of continuous, oppressive spiritual affliction. This usage underscores the reality of demonic harassment as a distinct form of suffering and powerfully demonstrates Jesus Christ's absolute authority and redemptive power over all spiritual forces that seek to trouble humanity.
TRV