Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for φορτίζω, the concept of burden-bearing can be related to Hebrew terms such as מַשָּׂא (massa, Strong's 4853), meaning "burden" or "load," and עָמַס (amas, Strong's 6006), meaning "to load" or "to carry a load." These terms similarly convey the idea of carrying or imposing burdens, both physically and metaphorically, within the Hebrew Scriptures.

Usage: The verb φορτίζω is used in the New Testament to describe the act of placing a burden or load upon someone or something. It can be used both in a literal sense, such as loading a physical object, and in a metaphorical sense, such as imposing burdensome requirements or expectations.

Context: The Greek verb φορτίζω appears in the New Testament in contexts that often highlight the imposition of burdens, whether physical or metaphorical. In Matthew 23:4, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and teachers of the law for their hypocrisy, stating, "They tie up heavy, burdensome loads and lay them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them" (BSB). Here, φορτίζω is used metaphorically to describe the onerous religious demands placed upon the people by their leaders.

The term also appears in Luke 11:46, where Jesus again rebukes the experts in the law: "Woe to you as well, experts in the law! You load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, but you yourselves will not lift a finger to help them" (BSB). This usage underscores the theme of religious leaders imposing strict and burdensome regulations without offering assistance or relief.

The concept of φορτίζω is significant in understanding the nature of legalism and the contrast between the heavy burdens of the law and the freedom offered through Christ. The New Testament often contrasts the burdens imposed by human traditions with the light and easy yoke of Jesus (cf. Matthew 11:28-30).