δεσμέω
desméō
G1196
SILEX Entry
Definition
To tie, bind, or fasten with bonds, especially by means of physical restraints such as cords, ropes, or chains; in extended contexts, to confine or restrain a person (frequently through imprisonment or chaining); also used metaphorically of hindering, curtailing, or restricting (e.g., restricting movement or freedom).
Semantic Range
to tie, to bind, to fasten with bonds, to chain, to shackle, to imprison, to restrain physically, to confine
Root / Etymology
From the noun δεσμός (bond, chain, fetter), derived from the root δεσμ- meaning 'to bind'. Related to the general Greek lexical family dealing with physical restraint or confinement. No indication of borrowing from non-Greek sources.
Historical & Contextual Notes
δεσμέω is attested in both classical and Koine Greek, with primary reference to the physical act of tying or binding—especially for restraining people or animals by cords, chains, or similar implements. In the Septuagint, δεσμέω regularly translates Hebrew roots for binding or fettering, especially in judicial or punitive contexts. In the New Testament, it often denotes literal physical restraint, as in the binding of prisoners (Luke 8:29; Acts 9:14). The verb may also take metaphorical sense in Jewish and Hellenistic literature, signifying restraint from action or limitation of agency. Translations as 'bind' or 'shackle' generally reflect its main use, although English 'bind' can suggest a broader semantic field (e.g., with oath or obligation), which is not as prominent for δεσμέω. The usage of δεσμέω in the New Testament and other contemporary sources aligns closely with its classical and Hellenistic usage. The semantic field is narrower than the English 'bind,' focusing primarily on physical or judicial restraint.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from δεσμόν; to tie, i.e. shackle:--bind.
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.