Brief Overview of καταφιλέω (Strong’s G2705: kataphileō)

Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding the nuances of Greek words enhances our comprehension of the New Testament and the cultural context of the early Christian era. The Greek word καταφιλέω (kataphileō), meaning “to kiss fervently” or “to kiss repeatedly,” is particularly significant as it conveys deep emotional and relational expressions found in the Bible. This word is not just about a simple gesture of affection but is laden with cultural, emotional, and sometimes even theological meanings, enriching our understanding of ancient Greek culture and New Testament interpretation.

Key Information

The Greek word is καταφιλέω (kataphileō), pronounced [ka-ta-fee-LEH-o].

The etymology of καταφιλέω derives from two root words: κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and φιλέω (phileō), which means “to love” or “to kiss.” Combined, the word emphasizes an intensified or repeated act of kissing, suggesting strong emotion or fervor.

καταφιλέω is a verb. It follows standard Greek verb conjugation patterns and appears in different tenses, voices, and moods, such as the indicative (statement of fact), subjunctive (potential or desired action), and imperative (command).

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Primary Meanings

To Kiss Fervently: The primary meaning of καταφιλέω is “to kiss fervently,” indicating a kiss given with great emotion or intensity. This is more than a casual greeting; it implies deep affection or devotion.

To Kiss Repeatedly: Another meaning is “to kiss repeatedly,” emphasizing the repetitive nature of the action, which can suggest continuous affection, earnestness, or even desperation.

To Embrace Affectionately: In some contexts, καταφιλέω extends beyond kissing to denote an affectionate embrace that includes repeated kissing, highlighting a full expression of warmth and closeness.

Similar Words

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φιλέω (phileō) [fee-LEH-o]: This word means “to love” or “to kiss,” but without the prefix κατά. It conveys a general sense of affection or a single kiss, lacking the intensity implied by καταφιλέω.

ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai) [as-PAH-zo-my]: Meaning “to greet” or “to welcome,” this word can include kissing as part of a greeting, but it primarily focuses on the act of welcoming or embracing, not the intensity of the kiss.

καταφιλίζω (kataphilizō) [ka-ta-fee-LEE-zo]: While not as commonly used, this word also conveys a similar meaning of kissing repeatedly or affectionately, though it can carry slightly different connotations based on context.

Morphological Features

Tense, Voice, Mood: As a verb, καταφιλέω appears in various tenses like present (indicating continuous action), aorist (indicating a single, completed action), and perfect (indicating a completed action with ongoing effects). It can be found in active and middle voices and used across different moods, such as the indicative, subjunctive, and imperative.

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

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

Aspect: The imperfective aspect in the present tense suggests an ongoing or habitual action, while the perfective aspect in the aorist tense indicates a single, completed action.

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

Lexicon Insights

καταφιλέω captures an intimate expression of affection, ranging from familial love to moments of deep emotional connection. In the New Testament, this word is often used to describe significant and heartfelt encounters, such as the kiss of the prodigal son upon returning home, conveying intense emotion and reconciliation. In classical Greek literature, καταφιλέω appears in various contexts where close, affectionate relationships are described, whether familial, romantic, or deeply loyal friendships. Theological implications can also be drawn from this word, particularly when considering the cultural significance of kissing in ancient Judea and the broader Mediterranean world as an act of greeting, farewell, reconciliation, or deep personal devotion.

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

Related Scripture References

Luke 7:38: “And standing behind Him at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and kept wiping them with the hair of her head, and kissing (κατεφίλει) His feet and anointing them with the perfume.”

Acts 20:37: “And they all began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed (κατεφίλουν) him.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταφιλέω (G2705)

καταφιλέω (kataphileō) is a Greek verb that means “to kiss fervently” or “to kiss repeatedly.” It conveys a deep sense of affection and emotion, appearing in both New Testament texts and classical Greek literature to express moments of intense relational connection, whether in family reunions, acts of reconciliation, or gestures of loyalty. Understanding this word provides valuable insights into the emotional and cultural dimensions of ancient Greek and Judean practices, particularly regarding greetings, farewells, and expressions of love.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, a kiss was not merely a casual greeting but often a significant expression of honor, devotion, or reconciliation, as reflected in the usage of καταφιλέω.

The verb καταφιλέω appears in some of the most emotional scenes of the New Testament, such as the prodigal son’s return and the weeping woman anointing Jesus’ feet.

In classical literature, καταφιλέω was used to describe the kisses exchanged between comrades in arms, emphasizing loyalty and brotherhood in times of war and peace.