Brief Overview of καταλέγω (Strong’s G2639: katalegō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuances of New Testament teachings and their broader implications in ancient Greek culture. The Greek word καταλέγω (katalegō) is a verb that appears in specific contexts, often related to listing, registering, or enumerating individuals or items. In 1 Timothy 5:9, this word is used in a unique way to establish guidelines for the early Christian community, particularly concerning the qualifications of widows eligible for church support. By exploring the meanings and usages of καταλέγω, we gain a clearer understanding of its significance in New Testament interpretation and how it reflects cultural practices of organization and administration in ancient times.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: καταλέγω (katalegō) [ka-ta-LE-go]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and λέγω (legō), meaning “to say” or “to speak.” The combination can imply “to declare,” “to recount,” or “to list down.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; generally found in its aorist or perfect forms, indicating completed actions or states.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To recount or list in a record.
• To enumerate or categorize.
• To declare or proclaim publicly.
• To assign or classify into a group or category.

Similar Words: λέγω (legō) [LE-go], meaning “to say” or “to speak,” serves as the root for καταλέγω. While λέγω refers generally to speaking or saying, καταλέγω implies a more deliberate act of listing or recounting. Another related word is ἀπογράφω (apographō) [a-po-GRA-fo], meaning “to write off” or “to enroll,” which also pertains to the act of recording but with more focus on writing rather than speaking.

Further Insights: The verb καταλέγω is generally used in contexts where something is being documented, categorized, or declared. Its morphological structure indicates that it is a compound verb formed with the preposition κατά (kata), which often intensifies the meaning of the root verb λέγω. Below is a table showing the aorist active indicative conjugation of καταλέγω:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: καταλέγω is generally translated as “to enroll” or “to declare.” It is often used in contexts where a formal listing or declaration is involved, such as in administrative or legal settings.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Highlights that καταλέγω is used to mean “to recount” or “to register,” particularly in cases where individuals are being officially listed, as in a census or legal document.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Notes that καταλέγω often involves the process of sorting or categorizing, which may apply to various contexts, such as social, military, or religious classifications.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Points out that καταλέγω can be used in a variety of settings, from legal and civic registers to more general lists or records. The term implies a formal action, often with authority or official capacity.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Translates καταλέγω as “to lay down” or “to list,” emphasizing its use in contexts involving enumeration or formal categorization.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Timothy 5:9: “A widow is to be put on the list only if she is not less than sixty years old, having been the wife of one man.” Here, the word καταλέγω (katalegō) is used to refer to the act of formally enrolling or listing widows in the church’s care registry. This involves a specific qualification process, reflecting the structured approach of the early church in managing its community support systems.

Classical Usage

Summary of καταλέγω (G2639: katalegō)

The Greek word καταλέγω (katalegō) is a powerful verb used in contexts where formality and structure are necessary. Whether in ancient civic records, military reports, or in the organizational framework of the early church, this word emphasizes the importance of orderly listing and documentation. In 1 Timothy 5:9, its usage underscores the early church’s efforts to care for its members with fairness and clarity.

Did You Know?

1. The word καταλέγω is one of many Greek words that highlight the administrative and organizational skills of the ancient Greeks.
2. This term is rare in the New Testament but is more frequently found in classical literature, showing its broad use in various societal sectors.
3. The concept behind καταλέγω can be seen as a precursor to modern-day registration or census-taking practices.