βρόχος (brochos)
brochos
restraint
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun brochos literally denotes a noose, slip-knot, or halter used to catch or restrain an animal. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in 1 Corinthians 7:35, where Paul uses the image metaphorically to describe a constraint on a believer’s life. The context clarifies that this is not a malicious trap, but rather a practical limitation on freedom.
Paul argues that being unmarried allows for undivided devotion to the Lord, whereas marriage introduces legitimate earthly concerns. He states that he speaks this way for the believers’ own benefit, not to impose a restrictive noose upon them. The word captures the idea of being tied down by necessary responsibilities, distinguishing this natural burden from a sinful snare.
This unique usage highlights how Paul repurposes a term from hunting or warfare to discuss domestic life. By calling marriage a brochos, he acknowledges its binding nature without condemning it. The metaphor serves to explain why celibacy might be preferable for those seeking total focus on spiritual service, framing the choice as one of available attention rather than moral superiority.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word brochos refers to a halter or noose, an item used to restrain an animal. In 1 Corinthians 7:35, Paul uses this image carefully. He says he is not trying to put a restrictive noose around believers. Instead, he wants them to serve the Lord without distraction. This shows that his advice comes from care, not control.
Marriage brings real responsibilities. These duties can take time and energy away from other parts of life. Paul acknowledges this binding nature. He does not call it a sin or a trap. It is simply a practical limit on freedom. For some, remaining single allows for undivided attention to spiritual matters.
Understanding this helps us see that different life paths have different weights. Neither path is superior in moral worth. Both offer ways to love God and neighbor. The goal is not to avoid responsibility but to serve with a clear heart. May you find peace in the station where God has placed you, trusting His guidance for your unique season of life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a restraint1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βρόχον1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 7:35
This I say for your own benefit, not that I may ensnare you, but for that which is appropriate, and that you may attend to the Lord without distraction.
Paul uses this term to clarify that his advice on celibacy is meant to help believers serve God freely, not to bind them with unnecessary restrictions.