ἑτεροζυγέω (heterozugeō)
heterozugeō
to yoke a mismatch
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb heterozugeō describes the act of being yoked together with someone who is fundamentally different or unequal. Derived from roots meaning "other" and "yoke," it literally depicts two mismatched animals forced to pull a single load, an image drawn from Old Testament laws prohibiting mixed pairings (Leviticus 19:19). In the New Testament, this rare word appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 6:14.
Paul uses this agricultural metaphor to warn believers against forming binding partnerships with unbelievers. The term implies a deep, functional union where shared purpose is impossible due to opposing natures. Rather than merely suggesting social distance, it addresses the practical impossibility of cooperating closely in spiritual matters when one party does not share the same faith foundation.
Translators typically render this as "be unequally yoked," preserving the vivid imagery of mismatched laborers. The word carries a strong connotation of incompatibility, highlighting that such unions lead to friction and inefficiency rather than harmony. It serves as a clear boundary marker for Christian community life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The image of two different animals forced to pull a single plow is one Paul uses to describe relationships that lack a shared spiritual foundation. When we are yoked with someone who does not share our faith, the direction of our lives often pulls in opposite directions. This creates friction and makes it difficult to move forward together in peace or purpose.
This warning is not about avoiding kindness or friendship with non-believers. Instead, it points to deep partnerships that require shared values and goals. By keeping this boundary, we protect our own spiritual health and ensure that our closest ties support, rather than hinder, our walk with God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unequally yoked together1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἑτεροζυγοῦντες1×
Key Verses
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II Corinthians 6:14
Don’t be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship do righteousness and iniquity have? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?
This verse uses the word to establish a clear boundary against binding partnerships where shared spiritual purpose is impossible.