The Greek word Chorazín, represented by G5523, is the name for Chorazin, a place in Palestine. Its derivation is uncertain. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively in the context of a judgment pronounced against it.
In the biblical narrative, G5523 is mentioned as one of the cities where Jesus performed mighty works G1411. It is always paired with Bethsaida G966 in a declaration of "woe" G3759 for its failure to repent G3340. The city's inaction is contrasted with the pagan cities of Tyre G5184 and Sidon G4605, which, it is stated, would have repented in sackcloth G4526 and ashes G4700 if they had witnessed the same miracles (Matthew 11:21; Luke 10:13).
Several related words are central to understanding the context of Chorazin's mention:
- G3759 ouaí (woe): This is a primary exclamation of grief. It is used to announce the sorrowful fate awaiting Chorazin due to its unrepentant state Matthew 11:21.
- G1411 dýnamis (mighty... work): Defined as miraculous power or a miracle itself, this term refers to the signs performed in Chorazin, which were meant to lead its people to faith Luke 10:13.
- G3340 metanoéō (repent): Meaning to think differently or feel compunction, this is the action Chorazin failed to take, forming the basis for the judgment against it Matthew 11:21.
- G966 Bēthsaïdá (Bethsaida): A place in Palestine mentioned alongside Chorazin, sharing in the same condemnation for witnessing mighty works without repenting Luke 10:13.
The theological weight of G5523 comes from the principles it illustrates as an example:
- Accountability for Revelation: The story of Chorazin demonstrates that receiving knowledge of God's power carries a high degree of responsibility. The city was condemned not for its ignorance, but for its failure to respond to the mighty works G1411 it had seen Matthew 11:21.
- The Nature of Unbelief: Chorazin's failure to repent G3340 highlights that unbelief can persist even in the face of miraculous evidence. The "woe" G3759 signifies the serious consequence of such spiritual indifference Luke 10:13.
- Standard of Judgment: The comparison to Tyre and Sidon establishes a relative standard for judgment. Chorazin's guilt was considered greater because it rejected clearer and more powerful divine manifestations than those cities had received Matthew 11:21.
In summary, Chorazín G5523 serves as a powerful biblical symbol of opportunity rejected. Though it was the site of divine mighty works G1411, its refusal to repent G3340 led to a pronouncement of woe G3759. The name is remembered not for the place itself, but for the solemn warning it represents about accountability and the consequences of ignoring God's call.
TRV