δεσμός (desmos)
desmos
chain
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 18 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word desmos refers to a physical bond or chain used to restrain someone. In the New Testament, it appears eighteen times, primarily in Acts and the prison letters of Paul like Philippians and Philemon. The term describes the literal shackles that held prisoners, such as the chains on the demon-possessed man in Luke 8:29 or the bonds mentioned in Acts 16:26.
Beyond its physical sense, the word carries a metaphorical weight. In Luke 13:16, Jesus describes a woman bound by Satan for eighteen years, using desmos to illustrate spiritual oppression that restricts freedom. Mark 7:35 also uses the phrase "bond of his tongue" to describe a physical impediment healed by Jesus.
Paul frequently employs this term to describe his own imprisonment for the sake of the gospel. In Philemon 1:13, he speaks of himself as a chain-bearer for the gospel, suggesting that his confinement is not a hindrance but a testament to his commitment. This usage highlights how early Christians viewed suffering and restriction as integral to their mission.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word desmos describes a physical chain or bond used to restrain someone. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts ranging from literal prison shackles to metaphors for spiritual oppression. When Jesus speaks of a woman bound by Satan for eighteen years, He uses this term to show that true freedom comes only through His power. This reminds us that no situation is beyond His reach.
For believers today, chains often symbolize the hardships we face while sharing the Gospel. The Apostle Paul wrote from prison, noting that his bonds actually encouraged other Christians to speak God’s word more boldly. Rather than silencing the message, restriction can highlight its truth. Your current struggles may serve a similar purpose, drawing attention to the hope found in Christ.
Even when life feels restrictive, remember that God’s word remains unchained. While physical circumstances change, the power of Scripture stays active and free. Trust that He is working even in your confinement, using it to strengthen your faith and witness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 18 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- chains11×
- of chains3×
- in chains1×
- chains.1×
- bond1×
- band1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δεσμῶν6×
- δεσμοῖς5×
- δεσμὰ3×
- δεσμῶν.1×
- δεσμὸς1×
- δεσμοῦ1×
- δεσμούς1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 13:16
Ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham whom Satan had bound eighteen long years, be freed from this bondage on the Sabbath day?”
Jesus uses this word to describe spiritual oppression, showing that He came to break every chain holding people captive.
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Acts 16:26
Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were loosened.
An earthquake loosens these bonds, demonstrating that God’s power transcends physical imprisonment and opens new paths for His servants.
-
Philippians 1:14
and that most of the brothers in the Lord, being confident through my bonds, are more abundantly bold to speak the word of God without fear.
Paul’s chains did not silence the Gospel; instead, they gave other believers confidence to speak God’s word without fear.
-
II Timothy 2:9
in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God’s word isn’t chained.
Paul contrasts his physical imprisonment with the unstoppable nature of God’s message, which cannot be bound by human chains.