Brief Overview of καταδιώκω (Strong’s G2614: katadiōkō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies as it reveals the depth and complexity of the original texts. The word καταδιώκω (katadiōkō) is particularly significant because it is associated with the idea of pursuing or chasing after something with intent. This verb appears in contexts that involve intense pursuit, whether in a physical, metaphorical, or spiritual sense. By examining καταδιώκω, we gain insight into how early Christians and the broader ancient Greek culture expressed concepts of pursuit, determination, and relentless effort.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: καταδιώκω (katadiōkō) [ka-ta-DEE-o-ko]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and διώκω (diōkō, meaning “to pursue” or “to persecute”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; it can appear in various tenses, voices, and moods, such as present active or aorist.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To pursue or chase after something or someone.
• To persecute or harass with determination.
• To follow closely or persistently in pursuit.

Similar Words: A related Greek word is διώκω (diōkō) [dee-O-ko], which also means “to pursue” or “to persecute.” However, while διώκω generally refers to pursuit or persecution in a broad sense, καταδιώκω intensifies the action with the prefix κατά, implying a more determined or forceful pursuit, often with a sense of urgency or aggression.

Further Insights: The verb καταδιώκω combines the prefix κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” with διώκω (diōkō), which means “to pursue” or “to persecute.” This combination implies an intensified, perhaps even hostile, pursuit that is relentless and forceful. Below is a table showing the present indicative active form of καταδιώκω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταδιώκω as “to pursue closely” or “to chase after,” emphasizing its use in contexts of persistent pursuit, often with a sense of hostility or determination.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Describes καταδιώκω as “to persecute” or “to follow after with determination,” highlighting its usage in both literal and metaphorical contexts where relentless pursuit is involved.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on the verb’s meaning of “to chase down” or “to hunt down,” noting its use in New Testament passages where it often describes persecution or aggressive pursuit.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes that καταδιώκω was used in classical Greek literature to denote a vigorous pursuit or chase, often in military or legal contexts where the pursuer intends to capture or defeat the pursued.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Simply defines καταδιώκω as “to pursue” or “to persecute,” highlighting its application in both physical and metaphorical senses of intense pursuit.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 12:14 – “Pursue [καταδιώκετε] peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταδιώκω (G2614: katadiōkō)

The Greek verb καταδιώκω, meaning “to pursue” or “to persecute,” is significant in both Biblical and classical contexts. It emphasizes a determined, often aggressive pursuit that involves chasing or following closely. In the New Testament, καταδιώκω is used to describe both literal and figurative pursuits, such as the pursuit of peace or persecution of individuals. Its use in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint further underscores its importance in conveying intense pursuit, whether in military, legal, or personal scenarios. Understanding καταδιώκω enriches our interpretation of texts that deal with themes of persistence, pursuit, and even aggression in various contexts.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The prefix “kata-” in καταδιώκω intensifies the action, suggesting a more forceful or urgent pursuit compared to the simpler διώκω.
• Fact 2: In ancient Greek military contexts, καταδιώκω was often used to describe the pursuit of a fleeing enemy, reflecting its connotations of relentless and aggressive action.
• Fact 3: The New Testament encourages believers to “pursue” (καταδιώκω) peace with the same determination that might be used in a literal chase, illustrating the metaphorical depth of the term.

Understanding καταδιώκω provides valuable insights into Biblical narratives and classical Greek literature, revealing how language conveys concepts of intense pursuit and determined effort in both sacred and secular texts.