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G1858 · Greek · New Testament
ἑορτάζω
heortazō
Verb
to keep a feast, celebrate

Definition

To celebrate a festival, to keep a feast — the act of communal, joyful observance. In the NT, Paul transforms this from Old Covenant ritual language into a description of the entire Christian life.

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul's command to 'celebrate the festival' (1 Cor 5:8) is revolutionary. The old leaven of malice must be purged, and believers must feast on 'sincerity and truth.' For Paul, the Christian life IS the feast — not once a year, but perpetually. Christ our Passover has been sacrificed, so every day is a celebration of deliverance. This transforms ethics from duty into delight.

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 5:8 Let us therefore celebrate the festival [heortazō], not with the old leaven.
1 Corinthians 5:7 Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.
Colossians 2:16 Let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food or drink, or with regard to a festival.
John 7:37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out.
Exodus 12:14 You shall keep it as a feast to the LORD; throughout your generations.

Related Words

External Resources

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