Brief Overview of κατατρέχω (Strong’s G2701: katatrechō)

Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential for gaining deeper insights into the meanings and contexts of the New Testament. The Greek word κατατρέχω (katatrechō) is a fascinating term that sheds light on the cultural, historical, and theological implications of the ancient world. This word, meaning “to run down” or “to run violently,” appears in the New Testament and provides valuable context for understanding the dynamic actions described in the text. Examining κατατρέχω not only enhances our interpretation of the Scriptures but also offers a glimpse into the vibrant, expressive nature of the Greek language.

Key Information

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The Greek word is κατατρέχω (katatrechō), pronounced [ka-ta-TREH-kho].

The etymology of κατατρέχω comes from two root words: κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and τρέχω (trechō), meaning “to run.” Together, they convey the idea of running downwards or running in a forceful manner.

κατατρέχω is a verb in Greek. It follows typical verb conjugation patterns, particularly in the present tense, where it is conjugated in various forms depending on the voice (active, middle, or passive) and mood (indicative, subjunctive, imperative, etc.).

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Primary Meanings

To Run Down: The most literal meaning of κατατρέχω is “to run down,” suggesting a movement downward with speed or urgency. This could imply running down a hill, slope, or similar landscape.

To Rush Violently: Another meaning is “to rush violently.” This usage captures the idea of moving with intense force or speed, often in a context of urgency or aggression.

To Pursue Aggressively: In some contexts, κατατρέχω can take on a figurative sense of pursuing something or someone aggressively, indicating not just physical movement but a determined or forceful intent.

Similar Words

τρέχω (trechō) [TREH-kho]: This word simply means “to run” without the directional or intensive force implied by κατατρέχω. It focuses on the act of running itself rather than the manner or direction.

καταδιώκω (katadiōkō) [ka-ta-DEE-o-ko]: Meaning “to pursue” or “to chase down,” this word is similar in conveying urgency or intensity, but it is more focused on the pursuit rather than the running action itself.

καταβάλλω (kataballō) [ka-ta-BAL-lo]: While this word also contains the prefix kata- (meaning “down”), it means “to throw down” or “to strike down.” Unlike κατατρέχω, which emphasizes running, καταβάλλω emphasizes a downward force, often in a combative or aggressive context.

Morphological Features

Tense, Voice, Mood: As a verb, κατατρέχω can be found in various tenses such as the present, aorist, and perfect. It can be used in different voices: active, where the subject performs the action; middle, where the subject is both acting and receiving the action; and passive, where the subject is acted upon. The moods include indicative (stating facts), subjunctive (expressing potential or desire), and imperative (giving commands).

Person and Number: The word is conjugated across three persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and two numbers (singular, plural).

Conjugation Table: Below is a conjugation table for κατατρέχω in the Present Indicative Active:

Aspect: The imperfective aspect of κατατρέχω in the present tense suggests a continuous or habitual action, whereas the perfective aspect in the aorist tense indicates a completed action.

For a more detailed explanation of Greek grammar and conjugations, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

κατατρέχω is an action-oriented word that conveys urgency and force, whether describing literal movement or metaphorical pursuit. In New Testament contexts, it captures a vivid image of action, often in intense or dynamic scenarios. This word, though less frequently used, provides rich meaning when it does appear, suggesting more than just running—it implies determination, aggression, or forcefulness. Classical Greek texts and lexicons further amplify these meanings, sometimes using the term in military or athletic contexts to convey a relentless, aggressive pursuit. These nuances make κατατρέχω a powerful word in both literary and theological discussions, resonating with themes of determination, urgency, and purpose.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Related Scripture References

Acts 22:4: “And I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering both men and women into prisons.” (Here, κατατρέχω is implied in the context of aggressive pursuit, although not directly used in the verse.)

Classical Usage

Summary of κατατρέχω (G2701)

κατατρέχω (katatrechō) is a dynamic Greek verb meaning “to run down” or “to rush violently,” capturing the intensity and urgency of action in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It appears in various forms throughout classical literature and provides depth to Biblical narratives by conveying determination and pursuit. As a verb, its conjugation varies based on tense, voice, and mood, and it has a range of similar words with slight differences in meaning.

Did You Know?

κατατρέχω is not only used in Biblical contexts but also in classical military strategies, where it described soldiers rushing down hills to surprise their enemies.

The term’s root, τρέχω, is the same as that found in the English derivative “trek,” highlighting its association with movement.

In Greek athletic competitions, κατατρέχω could describe runners who sprinted downhill, using gravity to gain speed.