Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuances of the original texts. The Greek word καθίζω (kathízō) is particularly significant because it is often used to describe the act of sitting down or taking a seat, a common activity but one rich in symbolic and practical implications. Its use in the New Testament helps to understand contexts where authority, teaching, rest, or judgment is implied, reflecting both cultural practices and deeper theological meanings in ancient Greek culture.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: καθίζω (kathízō), pronounced [ka-thee’-zo].
- Etymology: From a derivative of the root κατά (kata, “down”) and ἵζω (hizō, “to sit or place”).
- Part of Speech: Verb (present active indicative form); middle/passive voice forms are also found in the New Testament.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To sit down: Referring to the physical act of taking a seat.
- To settle or establish: Used metaphorically to indicate establishing authority or residence.
- To remain or dwell: Often used in the context of residing or abiding in a place.
- To appoint or set up: Can refer to someone being appointed or set in a position of authority.
Similar Words: ἵστημι (hístēmi) [HEE-stay-mee] – While ἵστημι means “to stand” or “to set up,” καθίζω is about sitting down or settling. Both convey positioning but in contrasting postures—one active and one restful.
Further Insights: καθίζω is a versatile verb that appears in various forms depending on voice and tense. It can be used transitively or intransitively, meaning “to sit down” oneself or “to cause to sit down.” The verb is found in both simple narrative descriptions and more profound metaphorical contexts. Here is a table showing its conjugation in the present indicative active and middle/passive:
| Tense | Active | Middle/Passive |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Person Singular | καθίζω (I sit) | καθίζομαι (I sit myself/am sat) |
| 2nd Person Singular | καθίζεις (you sit) | καθίζῃ (you sit yourself/are sat) |
| 3rd Person Singular | καθίζει (he/she/it sits) | καθίζεται (he/she/it sits itself/is sat) |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: καθίζω often implies authority, such as when Jesus “sits” at the right hand of God, connoting power and sovereignty.
- Thayers: Emphasizes the verb’s use in contexts of seating oneself or causing someone to sit, with extended meanings relating to settling or dwelling.
- Vines: Discusses the range of meanings from physical sitting to the figurative establishment in positions of power or residence.
- LSJ: Explores its usage in classical texts, highlighting both literal and figurative senses of “to sit” and “to settle.”
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Focuses on the basic meanings of “to sit down,” “to dwell,” and “to appoint,” stressing its practical applications.
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 19:28 – “And Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit [καθίζω] on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.'”
- Mark 9:35 – “Sitting down [καθίσας], He called the twelve and said to them, ‘If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.'”
- Luke 22:69 – “But from now on the Son of Man will be seated [καθίσεται] at the right hand of the power of God.”
Classical Usage
In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, καθίζω is used to express the act of sitting, resting, or dwelling. It is also utilized metaphorically for establishing oneself in a certain place or state.
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | The Republic | “And if he has to sit (καθίζω) by the side of a sick man…” |
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “He sat (καθίζω) down on the ground with his shield.” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 1:1 | “Blessed is the man who does not sit (καθίζω) in the counsel of the wicked.” |
Summary of καθίζω (G2523: kathízō)
The Greek verb καθίζω is rich in meaning, encompassing both the physical act of sitting and more abstract concepts such as establishing authority or dwelling. It appears in various New Testament passages to illustrate moments of teaching, judgment, and authority, offering layers of interpretation that connect the physical with the spiritual. Its presence in both classical literature and the Septuagint further underscores its versatility and significance.
Did You Know?
- καθίζω is often used in the New Testament to describe Jesus’ actions, emphasizing his teaching and authoritative roles.
- The word can imply both an active and passive state, meaning one can “sit down” or “be seated,” reflecting different aspects of human agency.
- In classical Greek, καθίζω could also refer to settling an argument or establishing peace, adding another dimension to its use in Biblical texts.
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