Brief Overview of κατακρίνω (Strong’s G2632: katakrínō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the full meaning of the Scriptures and their theological depth. The Greek word κατακρίνω (katakrínō) is particularly significant as it carries the meaning of condemning or passing judgment against someone. This term appears frequently in the New Testament, often in the context of divine judgment or human condemnation. Exploring the nuances of κατακρίνω enriches our understanding of how early Christians and ancient Greek culture perceived judgment, justice, and the nature of divine authority.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: κατακρίνω (katakrínō) [ka-ta-KREE-no]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and κρίνω (krínō, meaning “to judge” or “to decide”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; typically found in the aorist, future, and present tenses.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To condemn or pass judgment against.
• To judge someone to be guilty.
• To pronounce a sentence of condemnation or guilt.

Similar Words: κρίνω (krínō) [KREE-no], meaning “to judge” or “to decide,” serves as a broader term that covers the entire process of judgment, from decision-making to the pronouncement of a verdict. καταδικάζω (katadikázō) [ka-ta-dee-KAH-zo] is another related term meaning “to condemn” or “to sentence,” which often emphasizes the act of delivering a judicial verdict of condemnation.

Further Insights: The verb κατακρίνω is a compound of κατά (kata) and κρίνω (krínō). The prefix κατά intensifies the action of the verb, suggesting a forceful or final judgment. Below is a table showing the present indicative active form of κατακρίνω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κατακρίνω as “to judge someone as definitely guilty and thus subject to punishment,” emphasizing both the judicial and moral aspects of the term. It is frequently used in contexts where judgment results in a penalty or negative consequence.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Notes that κατακρίνω is “to give judgment against, to condemn,” specifically focusing on the authoritative declaration of guilt, whether by human courts or divine authority.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Explains κατακρίνω as “to pronounce judgment against” or “to pass sentence,” noting its use in contexts involving both secular and divine judgment, often to highlight the consequences of sin.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Indicates that κατακρίνω is used in classical Greek to denote “condemn” or “pass judgment,” often implying a severe or final decision against an individual or group.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Concisely defines κατακρίνω as “to judge against,” or “to sentence,” pointing to its usage in legal and moral contexts where condemnation is the outcome.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 12:41 – “The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn [κατακρινοῦσιν] it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.”
• Romans 8:34 – “Who is to condemn [κατακρίνων]? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατακρίνω (G2632: katakrínō)

The Greek verb κατακρίνω, meaning “to condemn” or “to judge against,” is crucial for understanding themes of judgment, guilt, and divine justice in both Biblical and classical texts. In the New Testament, κατακρίνω appears frequently in contexts where the judgment leads to condemnation, such as the ultimate divine judgment or the condemnation of unrepentant sinners. The term emphasizes the finality and severity of a judgment that results in a penalty or punishment. In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, κατακρίνω is used to denote both human and divine condemnation, reflecting the values of justice, law, and morality prevalent in ancient societies. By studying κατακρίνω, we gain a deeper appreciation of how early Christians and ancient Greeks perceived justice and the nature of moral and judicial authority.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The use of κατακρίνω in the New Testament often implies not just human condemnation but also the potential for divine grace and mercy, as seen in Romans 8:34.
• Fact 2: In ancient Greece, κατακρίνω was used not only in legal courts but also in philosophical discussions about justice and ethics.
• Fact 3: The term κατακρίνω underscores the seriousness of final judgment in Biblical theology, contrasting with the hope of redemption and salvation offered through Christ.

Understanding κατακρίνω deepens our grasp of Biblical teachings on judgment, justice, and redemption, allowing us to explore these profound themes more fully in their historical and cultural contexts.