Brief Overview of καταφθείρω (Strong’s G2704: kataphtheirō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies because it allows readers to delve deeper into the meanings behind the original texts. The Greek word καταφθείρω (kataphtheirō), meaning “to corrupt,” “to destroy,” or “to ruin,” holds particular significance in interpreting New Testament passages. It sheds light on the contexts of moral and physical decay and destruction, themes that resonate throughout Scripture and ancient Greek culture. By exploring the meaning and usage of καταφθείρω, readers can better grasp the theological implications and the gravity of the concept as it appears in Biblical and classical literature.

Key Information

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The Greek word is καταφθείρω (kataphtheirō), pronounced [ka-ta-FTHEY-ro].

The etymology of καταφθείρω comes from two root words: κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and φθείρω (phtheirō), which means “to destroy” or “to corrupt.” Together, they intensify the meaning, suggesting a thorough or complete destruction or corruption.

καταφθείρω is a verb. It follows typical Greek conjugation patterns and can be used in different tenses, voices, and moods. It appears in both the active and passive voices, and its moods include indicative, subjunctive, and imperative, among others.

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Primary Meanings

To Corrupt: The primary meaning of καταφθείρω is “to corrupt,” especially in a moral or ethical sense. This use is often applied to describe the degradation of character, society, or beliefs.

To Destroy: Another common meaning is “to destroy.” This usage emphasizes a more physical sense of destruction, such as the demolition of structures or the ruin of entities.

To Ruin: The term can also mean “to ruin,” which can refer to both tangible and intangible objects, from cities to reputations. It implies complete devastation or significant damage.

Similar Words

φθείρω (phtheirō) [FTHEY-ro]: This word means “to corrupt” or “to destroy” in a general sense, without the added intensity that comes from the prefix κατά. It can refer to both moral and physical degradation.

διαφθείρω (diaphtheirō) [dee-a-FTHEY-ro]: Meaning “to utterly destroy” or “to spoil,” this word also carries a sense of thorough corruption or destruction but is often used in a more intense or comprehensive context.

καταλύω (katalyō) [ka-ta-LOO-o]: This word means “to dissolve” or “to overthrow,” which can also imply destruction. However, it focuses more on the breaking down or dismantling process rather than on the idea of corruption.

Morphological Features

Tense, Voice, Mood: As a verb, καταφθείρω appears in various tenses like the present (indicating ongoing action), aorist (indicating a completed action), and perfect (indicating an action that has been completed with lasting effects). It can be found in active, middle, and passive voices and is used across different moods, such as the indicative (stating facts), subjunctive (expressing potential or desire), and imperative (giving commands).

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

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

Aspect: The imperfective aspect in the present tense indicates a continuous or habitual action, while the aorist tense often denotes a singular, completed action.

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

Lexicon Insights

καταφθείρω is a potent verb that carries the weight of destruction and corruption, both in literal and metaphorical senses. In the New Testament, the word can be employed to signify the total moral or physical destruction of individuals, communities, or objects. The term can denote the idea of spiritual ruin, drawing attention to the severe consequences of sin or divine judgment. In classical literature, καταφθείρω appears in contexts involving wars, natural disasters, and the moral decay of societies. The theological implications are significant, often emphasizing themes of divine retribution, human depravity, and the ultimate fate of the wicked. The word’s versatile usage across various contexts enriches its interpretation and application in biblical and literary studies.

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

Related Scripture References

2 Peter 2:12: “But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed (καταφθείρονται) in their destruction.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταφθείρω (G2704)

καταφθείρω (kataphtheirō) is a Greek verb meaning “to corrupt,” “to destroy,” or “to ruin.” It is used to convey themes of moral and physical decay, destruction, and devastation. The term is found in both New Testament writings and classical Greek literature, emphasizing the gravity of moral corruption and the totality of destruction. Understanding this word enhances our interpretation of biblical texts that deal with judgment, sin, and divine retribution, as well as classical works that discuss societal decay and ruin.

Did You Know?

καταφθείρω was frequently used in ancient Greek literature to describe the complete destruction of cities during wartime, emphasizing both physical and moral collapse.

The word’s root, φθείρω, is related to the English word “ruin,” reflecting its connotations of devastation and decay.

In the Septuagint, καταφθείρω is used to describe the corruption of humanity before the Flood, underscoring the total moral breakdown of society.