YOKE
A wooden frame used to join two oxen in a team (Deuteronomy 21:3). Metaphorically, it suggested subjection or slavish control and the removal of a yoke, freedom. "When you win your freedom you shall shake his yoke form oyour neck" (Genesis 27:40). Christ assured the faithful: "My yoke is easy" (Matthew 11:29).
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.