probably from the same as βάσις (through the notion of going down; compare βάθος); weight; in the New Testament only, figuratively, a load, abundance, authority:--burden(-some), weight.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun βάρος (G922), transliterated as *báros*, fundamentally denotes "weight." Its etymological root is likely connected to βάσις (G939), meaning "a stepping, a base," and βάθος (G899), "depth," suggesting a concept of something pressing down, having substance, or sinking. In the New Testament, where it exclusively appears, *báros* extends beyond its literal sense to encompass several figurative meanings: a "load" or "burden" (often oppressive), "abundance" or "magnitude" (especially in a positive sense, as in "weight of glory"), and "authority" or "a right" which, if exercised, could be perceived as a burden. The semantic range thus moves from physical heaviness to moral or spiritual oppression, and paradoxically, to the substantiality of divine glory or the legitimate demands of leadership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *báros* appears in the New Testament in various significant contexts:
* **Galatians 6:2**: "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Here, *báros* refers to the heavy loads or severe difficulties that individuals face, such as moral failings, suffering, or overwhelming responsibilities. It emphasizes a communal responsibility to assist those who are struggling under a weight too great for them to bear alone. This is contrasted with *phortion* (`{{G5413}}`) in Galatians 6:5, which speaks of each person's own "load" or responsibility. While *phortion* can be a personal, manageable load, *báros* suggests something more oppressive and potentially crushing.
* **2 Corinthians 4:17**: "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." This is a profound and paradoxical usage. Paul contrasts the temporary, "light" affliction (*thlipsis*, `{{G2347}}`) with the "eternal weight of glory." Here, *báros* signifies not a burden but an immense magnitude, substance, and enduring quality. The "weight" of glory implies its substantiality, its overwhelming value, and its eternal density, far surpassing the transient difficulties of present suffering. It is a glory that is weighty with God's presence and worth.
* **1 Thessalonians 2:6**: "Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as apostles of Christ." In this context, *báros* refers to the apostolic right or authority to be supported by the churches they ministered to. Paul and his companions chose not to exercise this right, thus avoiding being a "burden" or imposing a heavy demand on the Thessalonians. It speaks to the potential "weight" of their legitimate claims.
* **Acts 15:28**: "For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things." Here, *báros* refers to the requirements or demands of the Jerusalem Council placed upon Gentile converts. These were seen as necessary for fellowship but were explicitly stated not to be an excessive "burden," contrasting with the heavy yoke of the Mosaic Law.
* **Revelation 2:24**: "But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak, I will put upon you none other burden." Similar to Acts 15:28, *báros* here refers to a doctrinal or ethical requirement. Christ assures the faithful in Thyatira that no additional "burden" or demanding teaching beyond what they already hold is being imposed upon them, contrasting with the false teachings of Jezebel.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **βάσις (G939)** and **βάθος (G899)**: As noted in the etymology, these words relate to "stepping down" or "depth," reinforcing the idea of something substantial, pressing down, or profound, which aligns with the "weight" aspect of *báros*.
* **φορτίον (phortion, G5413)**: Often translated "burden," as seen in Galatians 6:5 ("each one will carry his own load"). While *báros* can denote an oppressive, communal, or authoritative "weight," *phortion* often refers to an individual's personal and perhaps more manageable "load" or responsibility. The distinction in Galatians 6:2 (bear *báros*) and 6:5 (bear *phortion*) is significant, suggesting a difference between a crushing weight and a personal responsibility.
* **θλῖψις (thlipsis, G2347)**: "Affliction," "tribulation," "pressure." This word often describes the *experience* of being under a "weight" or "burden," particularly in 2 Corinthians 4:17, where it is contrasted with the "weight of glory."
* **κόπος (kopos, G2873)**: "Toil," "labor," "trouble." This can describe the burdensome effort involved in carrying a *báros*.
* **δόξα (doxa, G1391)**: "Glory." This is the object of the "weight" in 2 Corinthians 4:17. The "weight of glory" implies that God's glory is not merely superficial or fleeting, but possesses an intrinsic, substantial, and eternal value.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *báros* is multifaceted:
* **Communal Responsibility and Compassion**: In Galatians 6:2, *báros* underscores the call to Christian solidarity and empathy. Believers are not meant to bear their most grievous burdens alone. This command reflects the very nature of Christ, who bore the ultimate burden of sin for humanity.
* **The Paradox of Suffering and Glory**: The "weight of glory" in 2 Corinthians 4:17 is a profound theological statement. It reorients the believer's perspective on suffering, presenting it as a temporary, "light" precursor to an immeasurable, eternal, and substantial glory. This "weight" speaks to the inherent value, permanence, and overwhelming presence of God's future revelation. It suggests that divine realities are not ethereal or insubstantial, but possess ultimate gravity and worth.
* **Authority and Humility in Ministry**: The use of *báros* in 1 Thessalonians 2:6 highlights the tension between legitimate apostolic authority (the right to be supported) and the humble, selfless exercise of ministry. Paul's choice not to be a "burden" exemplifies sacrificial leadership, prioritizing the spiritual well-being of the flock over personal rights.
* **The Nature of Divine and Human Requirements**: In Acts 15:28 and Revelation 2:24, *báros* describes imposed requirements. This signifies that not all demands are oppressive; some are "necessary" for good order and truth. However, it also warns against adding unnecessary "burdens" to believers, emphasizing a freedom from legalistic impositions that do not originate from God.
### Summary
The Greek word *báros* (G922) moves from its literal meaning of "weight" to encompass a rich spectrum of figurative senses in the New Testament. It describes the oppressive "burden" of human struggles, calling believers to mutual support. Paradoxically, it also denotes the immense "weight" or substantiality of eternal glory, contrasting it with fleeting afflictions and highlighting the profound, enduring nature of divine realities. Furthermore, *báros* touches upon the exercise of "authority" or "rights" in ministry, and the nature of "requirements" or "demands," whether necessary or unduly imposed. This multifaceted term thus illuminates aspects of Christian communal life, the eschatological hope, the ethics of leadership, and the discernment of true doctrine, all through the lens of what is truly "heavy" or "weighty" in the eyes of God.
TRV