Brief Overview of κολλάω (Strong’s G2853: kolláō)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the nuances and deeper meanings within the New Testament. The Greek word κολλάω (kolláō), which appears first in Luke 10:11, is especially significant as it conveys the idea of “clinging,” “joining,” or “adhering” to something or someone. This verb is essential for understanding various contexts in the New Testament, where it often describes intimate associations or firm attachments, whether in social, spiritual, or physical senses. In ancient Greek culture, kolláō also reflected ideas of bonding and unity, both in interpersonal relationships and within the philosophical concepts of attachment and cohesion.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κολλάω, transliterated as kolláō [kol-LAH-oh].

Etymology: The word kolláō derives from the Greek noun κόλλα (kólla), meaning “glue” or “something that sticks.” The verb form takes on the idea of gluing or sticking closely to something or someone.

Part of Speech: Verb. As a verb, kolláō follows the patterns of conjugation typical for verbs in Koine Greek, including usage in various tenses and voices to express attachment or union.

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Defining Meanings

1. To Join or Attach Oneself To: The primary meaning of kolláō is “to glue” or “to join oneself to,” implying a strong and intentional attachment, as seen in Luke 10:11 when dust clings to the feet of the disciples.
2. To Be United or Closely Associated With: Beyond literal attachment, kolláō also refers to social or spiritual unity, such as believers being “joined” to the Lord or to one another in faith.
3. To Cleave or Adhere Firmly: This term is used to describe unwavering dedication or firm adherence to someone or something, which can be seen in contexts of loyalty, marriage, or faith.

Exploring Similar Words

1. συνάπτω (synáptō) [soo-NAP-toh]: Meaning “to join together” or “to bind.” While similar in conveying connection, synáptō often refers to a more formal or structured joining, like a contract or alliance, unlike the more adhesive connotation of kolláō.
2. προσκολλάω (proskolláō) [pros-kol-LAH-oh]: Meaning “to glue to” or “to adhere to.” This word shares a root with kolláō but often implies a more directional attachment, such as attaching oneself to a specific person or cause.
3. κολλούω (kolloúō) [kol-LOO-oh]: Meaning “to glue” or “to cement.” This term is closely related to kolláō but is often used more literally in the context of construction or physical binding.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: Kolláō is primarily found in the present and aorist tenses, indicative mood, active, middle, and passive voices, expressing both the action of joining and the state of being joined.

Person and Number: Examples in different persons and numbers include:

• Present Indicative Active: 1st person singular – κολλῶ (I join), 2nd person singular – κολλᾷς (you join), 3rd person plural – κολλῶσιν (they join).

Aspect: Kolláō features both imperfective (ongoing action) and perfective (completed action) aspects, which illustrate either the process or result of attachment.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons provide a rich understanding of kolláō, indicating its frequent use to convey strong attachment, whether in relationships, spiritual union, or social bonds. In New Testament contexts, it appears in passages that emphasize the closeness of discipleship, commitment to faith, or the cohesion of the early Christian community. Classical Greek literature also reflects this usage, demonstrating attachment and loyalty in philosophical and social contexts. The theological implications of kolláō in Christian writings often underscore the intimate relationship between believers and Christ or the unity within the body of believers. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 10:11: “Even the dust of your city which clings [κολλᾶται] to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you; yet be sure of this, that the kingdom of God has come near.”
2. Acts 5:13: “But none of the rest dared to associate [κολλᾶσθαι] with them; however, the people held them in high esteem.”
3. 1 Corinthians 6:16: “Or do you not know that the one who joins [κολλώμενος] himself to a prostitute is one body with her? For He says, ‘The two shall become one flesh.'”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek verb kolláō offers essential insight into the concept of attachment, union, and dedication within both New Testament texts and ancient Greek literature. Primarily meaning “to join” or “to cling to,” it is used in various contexts that highlight spiritual, social, and physical associations. Understanding kolláō enhances the interpretation of Biblical teachings on unity, loyalty, and relational commitment.

Did You Know?

1. The root word kólla (glue) in Greek provides the foundation for modern words like “collage,” emphasizing the concept of things sticking together.
2. In ancient Greek philosophy, kolláō was sometimes used to describe the attachment of the soul to higher wisdom or virtue.
3. The term is often used in medical texts of the time to describe tissues or organs that “adhere” together, illustrating its versatile application beyond just social or relational contexts.