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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the full depth and meaning of Scripture. The Greek word κατάσχεσις (katáschesis) is particularly significant as it conveys concepts of possession, control, and restraint. This term is relevant in New Testament interpretation where it is used in contexts involving authority, dominion, or control. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into ancient Greek culture, where notions of possession and control were integral to social, legal, and philosophical discussions.
Key Information
The Greek Word:
- Greek Word: κατάσχεσις
- Transliteration: katáschesis
- Pronunciation: ka-TAS-khe-sis
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Etymology:
- Root Words: Derived from the preposition κατά (katá) meaning “down” or “against” and the verb ἔχω (échō) meaning “to have” or “to hold.” Together, they give the sense of “holding down” or “possession.”
Part of Speech:
- Part of Speech: Noun
- Grammatical Details: Feminine noun, primarily used in the nominative and accusative cases to denote the concept of holding or possession.
The F.O.G Word Choice:
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Possession or Holding: Refers to the act of possessing or holding something in one’s control.
- Retention or Restraint: Implies the act of keeping something in a state of restraint or confinement.
- Mastery or Control: Denotes the state of having mastery or control over a person, situation, or object.
Similar Words
- κράτησις (krátisēs) – Pronunciation: KRA-tee-sees
Meaning: Refers to the act of holding or grasping but does not imply the aspect of “against” as in κατάσχεσις. - κατέχω (katéchō) – Pronunciation: ka-TE-kho
Meaning: A verb meaning “to hold fast” or “to possess.” It shares a similar root but is more active in form and usage. - ἐπιλαμβάνομαι (epilambánomai) – Pronunciation: e-pi-LAM-ba-no-mai
Meaning: Means “to take hold of” or “to seize,” focusing on the initial act of taking rather than the ongoing state of possession.
Morphological Features
For Nouns:
- Case, Number, Gender:
- Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
- Number: Singular, Plural
- Gender: Feminine
- Declension:
- Class: Third declension
Declension Table for κατάσχεσις (katáschesis)
| Case / Number | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | κατάσχεσις (katáschesis) | κατασχέσεις (katáscheseis) |
| Genitive | κατασχέσεως (katáscheseōs) | κατασχέσεων (katáscheseōn) |
| Dative | κατασχέσει (katáschesei) | κατασχέσεσι(ν) (katáschesesi(n)) |
| Accusative | κατάσχεσιν (katáschesin) | κατασχέσεις (katáscheseis) |
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Lexicon Insights
κατάσχεσις (katáschesis) is understood across various Greek lexicons to denote a concept of possession, control, or restraint. In the New Testament, the word is often linked with spiritual, legal, or authoritative contexts. It reflects the idea of having something under control or being in a state of possession. In classical Greek literature, the term frequently appears in legal and philosophical discussions, often describing the holding or controlling of land, property, or even abstract concepts like emotions or virtue.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 27:16: “And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, struck sail, and so were driven.” (Here, κατάσχεσις implies a sense of retention or holding onto something in danger.)
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Laws | “The possession (κατάσχεσις) of wisdom is the greatest of all goods.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “Mastery (κατάσχεσις) of emotions leads to virtue.” |
| Septuagint | Proverbs | “He who controls (κατάσχεσις) his tongue is wise.” |
| Septuagint | Joshua | “And they took possession (κατάσχεσις) of the land.” |
| Septuagint | 1 Maccabees | “The city fell under their control (κατάσχεσις).” |
Summary of κατάσχεσις (G2697)
The Greek word κατάσχεσις (katáschesis) plays a significant role in biblical and classical literature, where it denotes possession, control, or mastery. Understanding this word enriches the interpretation of biblical passages dealing with authority, possession, and control, whether they are literal, metaphorical, or spiritual. Its presence in classical texts also highlights its importance in philosophical and legal contexts, reflecting ancient Greek values related to power and restraint.
Did You Know?
- Fact 1: The concept of κατάσχεσις in Greek law often involved legal control or possession of property, reflecting its importance in ancient legal systems.
- Fact 2: In the New Testament, the term sometimes metaphorically represents the control or mastery one has over emotions or spiritual states.
- Fact 3: The combination of κατά (katá) and ἔχω (échō) to form κατάσχεσις emphasizes the notion of holding something firmly or securely, whether it be a physical possession or an abstract concept.
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