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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is essential for interpreting the nuances and depths of Scripture. The Greek word κατασφραγίζω (katasphragízō) is particularly significant as it involves the act of sealing, which has deep theological implications in the New Testament, especially concerning God’s sovereignty and protection. Additionally, this word sheds light on ancient Greek practices of sealing documents or items to denote authority, authenticity, or ownership, offering insights into both biblical and cultural contexts.
Key Information
The Greek Word:
- Greek Word: κατασφραγίζω
- Transliteration: katasphragízō
- Pronunciation: ka-ta-sfra-GEE-zoh
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Etymology:
- Root Words: Derived from the preposition κατά (katá) meaning “down, upon” and the verb σφραγίζω (sphragízō) meaning “to seal.” Combined, they give the sense of “to seal thoroughly” or “to affix a seal with authority.”
Part of Speech:
- Part of Speech: Verb
- Grammatical Details: Primarily found in the active voice, with usages in the aorist and perfect tenses, reflecting the completed or authoritative action of sealing.
The F.O.G Word Choice:
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- To seal completely or securely: Implies affixing a seal that ensures security, authenticity, or ownership.
- To confirm or ratify: Used in contexts where the act of sealing serves as a form of confirmation or validation.
- To protect or safeguard: The metaphorical sense of sealing something to keep it safe from harm or tampering.
Similar Words
- σφραγίζω (sphragízō) – Pronunciation: sfra-GEE-zoh
Meaning: To seal; the root verb, which does not necessarily imply the comprehensive or thorough aspect emphasized by the prefix κατά. - κατακλείω (katakleíō) – Pronunciation: ka-ta-KLEE-oh
Meaning: To shut up completely; similar in its sense of enclosure and security but without the emphasis on the formal sealing process. - ἀποσφραγίζω (aposphragízō) – Pronunciation: a-po-sfra-GEE-zoh
Meaning: To unseal; opposite in meaning but related in the context of dealing with seals or closures.
Morphological Features
For Verbs:
- Tense, Voice, Mood:
- Tense: Present, Aorist, Perfect
- Voice: Active
- Mood: Indicative, Imperative
- Person and Number:
- Examples include first person singular (κατασφραγίζω – I seal), second person singular (κατασφραγίζεις – you seal), third person singular (κατασφραγίζει – he/she/it seals), and their respective plural forms.
- Aspect:
- Imperfective: Ongoing or habitual action of sealing.
- Perfective: Completed action with lasting results, such as sealing a document to secure it permanently.
Conjugation Table (Present Indicative Active)
| Person/Number | Conjugation |
|---|---|
| 1st Sing. | κατασφραγίζω (katasphragízō) |
| 2nd Sing. | κατασφραγίζεις (katasphragízeis) |
| 3rd Sing. | κατασφραγίζει (katasphragízei) |
| 1st Plur. | κατασφραγίζομεν (katasphragízomen) |
| 2nd Plur. | κατασφραγίζετε (katasphragízete) |
| 3rd Plur. | κατασφραγίζουσι(ν) (katasphragízousi(n)) |
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Lexicon Insights
κατασφραγίζω (katasphragízō) is used in both biblical and classical Greek literature to denote the act of sealing with authority and finality. In the New Testament, it often conveys spiritual and divine sealing, such as God’s protective seal on believers or the sealing of significant decrees and judgments. The word emphasizes security, permanence, and authenticity. In classical contexts, it may refer to the literal sealing of documents, contracts, or even city gates, often highlighting authority, trustworthiness, or protection.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Related Scripture References
- Revelation 10:4: “And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up [κατασφραγίζω] those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The king’s decree was (κατασφραγίζει) with his seal.” |
| Plato | Laws | “The gate was (κατασφραγίζεται) to protect the city.” |
| Septuagint | Daniel | “And they sealed (κατασφραγίζουσι) the scroll for the prophecy.” |
| Septuagint | Esther | “The decree was (κατασφραγίζει) with the king’s ring.” |
| Septuagint | Ezekiel | “The words were (κατασφραγίζεται) by the prophet.” |
Summary of κατασφραγίζω (G2696)
The Greek word κατασφραγίζω (katasphragízō) is a powerful term that embodies the act of sealing with authority, finality, and protection. In biblical texts, it often represents divine action and authority, conveying God’s sovereignty in sealing decrees or protecting His people. Understanding this word enhances our interpretation of biblical passages that involve God’s protection, judgment, or covenantal assurances.
Did You Know?
- Fact 1: The prefix κατά (katá) intensifies the meaning of σφραγίζω (sphragízō), implying a more thorough or complete action of sealing.
- Fact 2: In ancient Greek culture, sealing was a common practice for securing important documents, similar to notarization today.
- Fact 3: The concept of sealing in Revelation often relates to divine mysteries and protection, linking the physical act to a spiritual truth.
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