Strong's Lexicon exorkistés: Exorcist Original Word: ἐξορκιστής Word Origin: Derived from the Greek verb ἐξορκίζω (exorkizō), meaning "to adjure" or "to bind by an oath." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "exorkistés," the concept of exorcism can be related to Hebrew terms for spiritual cleansing and purification, such as טָהֵר (taher, Strong's H2891) meaning "to be clean" or "to purify." Usage: The term "exorkistés" refers to a person who performs exorcisms, which is the act of expelling or attempting to expel evil spirits from a person or place. In the New Testament context, it specifically denotes individuals who practiced this ritual, often invoking the name of Jesus or other powerful figures to command spirits to leave. Cultural and Historical Background: In the ancient world, exorcism was a common practice across various cultures and religions. Jewish exorcists were known to use incantations and rituals to drive out demons. The practice was not unique to Christianity, but early Christians believed that the authority of Jesus' name was uniquely powerful in casting out demons. This belief is rooted in the understanding of Jesus' divine authority over spiritual realms. HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 1845 eksorkistḗs – an exorcist; a person expelling demons, adjuring (binding) them by using oaths ("God-formulas," religious incantations). See 1844 (eksorkizō). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom exorkizó Definition an exorcist NASB Translation exorcists (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1845: ἐξορκιστήςἐξορκιστής, ἐξορκιστου, ὁ (ἐξορκίζω); 1. he who exacts an oath of another. 2. an exorcist, i. e. one who employs a formula of conjuration for expelling demons: Acts 19:13. (Josephus, Antiquities 8, 2, 5; Lucian, epigr. in Anthol. 11,427; often in the church Fathers.) From exorkizo; one that binds by an oath (or spell), i.e. (by implication) an "exorcist" (conjurer) -- exorcist. see GREEK exorkizo |
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