Brief Overview of καταδικάζω (Strong’s G2613: katadikazō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances of the original texts and their meanings. The Greek word καταδικάζω (katadikazō) is particularly significant because it deals with the concept of condemnation and judgment. This verb appears in the New Testament in contexts where judgment, both divine and human, is pronounced against someone. Exploring καταδικάζω helps us understand how early Christians perceived condemnation and the moral and legal implications within the Greco-Roman world.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: καταδικάζω (katadikazō) [ka-ta-di-KA-zo]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and δικάζω (dikazō, meaning “to judge” or “to decide”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; it can be conjugated in various tenses, voices, and moods.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To condemn or pronounce judgment against someone.
• To give a judicial decision against, often with a negative connotation.
• To sentence or find guilty, usually in a legal or moral context.

Similar Words: A related Greek word is κρίνω (krinō) [KREE-no], which means “to judge” or “to decide.” However, while κρίνω can refer to any form of judgment or decision, whether positive or negative, καταδικάζω specifically emphasizes a negative judgment that results in condemnation or punishment.

Further Insights: The verb καταδικάζω is formed from the prefix κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” combined with δικάζω (dikazō), which means “to judge.” This construction implies a judgment that “brings down” or condemns someone. Below is a table showing the present indicative active form of καταδικάζω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταδικάζω as “to pass judgment against” or “to condemn,” often in a judicial or formal context. The emphasis is on the authoritative nature of the judgment that results in a negative outcome.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Describes καταδικάζω as “to condemn” or “to pass sentence,” highlighting its use in both legal and moral contexts where someone is found guilty or at fault.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on the verb’s meaning of “to pronounce guilty” or “to sentence,” noting its use in New Testament contexts that involve divine or human judgment.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes that καταδικάζω was used in classical Greek to denote a formal decision or condemnation in court or legal settings, often implying a punishment or penalty.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Simply defines καταδικάζω as “to condemn” or “to adjudge against,” underscoring its role in conveying a sense of legal or moral condemnation.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 12:7 – “But if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned [κατεδικάσατε] the innocent.”
• James 5:6 – “You have condemned [κατεδικάσατε] and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you.”
• Luke 6:37 – “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn [καταδικάζετε], and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταδικάζω (G2613: katadikazō)

The Greek verb καταδικάζω, meaning “to condemn” or “to judge against,” is essential for understanding various Biblical passages that involve judgment, condemnation, and the consequences of such judgments. This verb appears in the New Testament in contexts where judgment, either divine or human, results in a negative outcome or punishment. The use of καταδικάζω in the Septuagint and classical Greek literature further highlights its importance in legal, moral, and ethical discussions. By studying καταδικάζω, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how ancient cultures and early Christians perceived judgment and condemnation, both in legal and spiritual terms.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: καταδικάζω is often used in legal contexts to describe a formal judgment or condemnation, showing its significance in both secular and religious settings.
• Fact 2: The prefix “kata-” in καταδικάζω adds intensity to the verb, suggesting a judgment that “brings down” or condemns someone, highlighting its negative connotation.
• Fact 3: In the New Testament, καταδικάζω is used to emphasize the importance of mercy over judgment, as seen in Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 12:7.

Understanding καταδικάζω provides valuable insights into the Biblical narrative and classical Greek literature, illustrating how language conveys concepts of justice, judgment, and condemnation.