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φορτίζω

phortízō

G5412 verb

SILEX Entry

Definition

To load, place a burden upon, heap upon; primarily refers to the act of loading something (such as an animal, person, or object) with a physical load or cargo. Secondarily, used figuratively for causing someone to bear a burden, whether physical, mental, or (in context) religious duties and obligations.

Semantic Range

to load (physically), to heap upon, to burden (someone), to place a heavy responsibility on, to impose a load or obligation, to overburden (especially with requirements or duties)

Root / Etymology

Derived from φόρτος (phórtos, 'load, burden'), itself from the verb φέρω ('to carry, bear') with the verb-forming suffix -ίζω (-izō), indicating 'to cause to have a burden/load.'

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical and Hellenistic Greek, φορτίζω is used in literal contexts for loading ships, animals, or people with physical burdens. In the New Testament (notably Luke 11:46), it occurs metaphorically, describing the imposition of religious or legalistic burdens upon people—especially in the sense of teachers or authorities placing onerous requirements on others. This figurative usage highlights the contrast between outwardly imposed duties and inner burdens. The verb is rare in the New Testament and post-classical Greek, and is more vivid than general terms for 'to burden' (e.g., βαρύνω). English translations often render it as 'load,' 'burden,' or with the phrase 'laden with,' but may miss the nuance of intentional imposition. Not closely attested in the Septuagint.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from φόρτος; to load up (properly, as a vessel or animal), i.e. (figuratively) to overburden with ceremony (or spiritual anxiety):--lade, by heavy laden.

Root Family

φορτίζω (phortizō) — to load, to burden

Root φορτ- to load, to burden

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G5412-01 πεφορτισμένοι pephortismenoi V PRF PASS PTCP VOC M PL are laden having been burdened having been burdened 1
G5412-02 φορτίζετε phortizete V PRS ACT IND 2P PL you load you are burdening you are burdening 1

Occurrences in Scripture

2 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G5412-01 Matthew 11:28 πεφορτισμένοι pephortismenoi V PRF PASS PTCP VOC M PL are laden having been burdened having been burdened
G5412-02 Luke 11:46 φορτίζετε phortizete V PRS ACT IND 2P PL you load you are burdening you are burdening
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