(represented by numerous Heb. words). To bind and to loose (δέω and λύω ) are figurative expressions, used as synonymous with command and forbid; they are also taken for condemning and absolving (Matthew 16:19). Binding and loosing, in the language of the Jews, expressed permitting or forbidding, or judicially declaring any thing to be permitted or forbidden (comp. John 20:23; John 16:13). In the admission of their doctors to interpret the Law and the Prophets, they put a key and a table- book into their hands, with these words; " Receive the power of binding and loosing," to which there seems to be an allusion in Luke 11:52. (See Lightfoot, Hor. Heb. in loc.) So Christ says, " I am not come to destroy," to unloose or dissolve, " the law, but to fulfil it," that is, to confirm and establish it (Matthew 5:17). The expression "to bind the law upon one's hand for a sign," etc., is figurative, and implies an acquaintance with it, and a constant regard to its precepts; but the Jews construed the phrase literally, and bound parts of the law about their wrists; hence the custom of wearing phylacteries. Rolls or volumes of writing were tied up; hence the expression in Isaiah 8:16. (See PHYLACTERY).
The Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature was edited by John McClintock and James Strong. It contains nearly 50,000 articles pertaining to Biblical and other religious literature, people, creeds, etc. It is a fantastic research tool for broad Christian study.
John McClintock was born October 27, 1814 in Philadelphia to Irish immigrants, John and Martha McClintock. He began as a clerk in his father's store, and then became a bookkeeper in the Methodist Book Concern in New York. Here he converted to Methodism and considered joining the ministry. McClintock entered the University of Pennsylvania in 1832 and graduated with high honors three years later. Subsequently, he was awarded a doctorate of divinity degree from the same institution in 1848.WikipediaRead More