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G1965 · Greek · New Testament
ἐπίορκος
epiorkos
Noun / Adjective
Perjurer, false swearer, oath-breaker

Definition

A noun/adjective describing one who swears falsely or breaks a solemn oath. Paul includes epiorkoi (perjurers) in his vice list in 1 Timothy 1:10 — behaviors the law rightly restrains and that are contrary to sound doctrine.

Usage & Theological Significance

The appearance of epiorkos in Paul's vice list (1 Timothy 1:10) alongside murderers, slave traders, and liars is striking — perjury is ranked with violent crimes against persons. This is consistent with the biblical worldview: truth-telling is not merely a social convention but a reflection of the divine nature. God is truth (John 14:6); to lie under oath is therefore a direct offense against the character of the Creator. Paul's purpose is not to condemn but to show the law's proper function: 'the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless' (1 Timothy 1:9). The redeemed person is transformed by the Spirit of truth into one whose word needs no oath — because their character has become the oath.

Key Bible Verses

1 Timothy 1:10 The sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine.
Matthew 5:33 You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely.'
Psalm 24:4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully.
Zechariah 5:3 This is the curse that goes out over the face of the whole land. For everyone who steals shall be cleaned out according to what is on one side, and everyone who swears falsely shall be cleaned out.
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life.'

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