PER'SECUTE, L. persequor per and sequor, to pursue. See Seek and Essay.
1. In a general sense, to pursue in a manner to injure, vex or afflict to harass with unjust punishment or penalties for supposed offenses to inflict pain from hatred or malignity.
2. Appropriately, to afflict, harass, or destroy for adherence to a particular creed or system of religious principles, or to a mode of worship. Thus Nero persecuted the Christians by crucifying some, burning others, and condemning others to be worried by dogs. See Acts 22
3. To harass with solicitations or importunity.
The King James Bible has stood its ground for nearly 400 years. However, during that time the English language has changed, and with it the meanings of some words it used. Here are more than 6,500 words whose definitions have changed since 1611.Wikipedia
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