YOKE
A symbol of subjection and servitude, 1 Kings 12:4; an iron yoke, of severe oppression, Deuteronomy 28:48. The ceremonial law was a yoke, a burden-some restriction, Acts 15:10 Galatians 5:1. The withdrawing or breaking of a yoke denoted a temporary or an unlimited emancipation form bondage, Isaiah 58:6 Jeremiah 2:20, and sometimes the disowning of rightful authority, Jeremiah 5:5. The iron yoke imposed by our sins, none but God can remove, Lamentations 1:14; but the yoke of Christ’s service is easy and light, Matthew 11:29, Matthew 1:11.