Introduction

In the realm of Biblical studies, understanding the nuances of Greek verbs is essential for interpreting scripture more accurately. The Greek verb καπηλεύω (kapeleuo) is significant because it provides insights into the attitudes toward commerce, dishonesty, and the integrity of ministry in the New Testament. This word captures the intersection of ethical conduct and religious practice in the ancient world, offering a window into early Christian teachings about purity and sincerity.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καπηλεύω, transliterated as kapeleuo, pronounced [ka-peh-LOO-oh].
• Etymology: Likely derived from the noun κάπηλος (kapelos), meaning “huckster” or “peddler,” and the verb form suggests the act of trading or selling, often with a negative connotation of deceit or exploitation.
• Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To peddle or hawk goods: Implies trading items, particularly in a manner perceived as dishonest or exploitative.
• To corrupt or adulterate: Often used in a figurative sense to describe corrupting something pure, such as God’s word or teaching.

Similar Words: ἑμπορέυομαι (emporéuomai) [em-por-EU-oh-my] means “to engage in trade,” but without the inherently negative connotation of deceit that καπηλεύω carries. κέρδος (kerdos) [KER-dos] means “gain” or “profit,” which may be neutral or positive, unlike the often negative implication of καπηλεύω.

Further Insights: καπηλεύω is in the present active indicative form, suggesting an ongoing or habitual action. This form indicates not just the act of selling, but the manner and motivation behind it—often implying deceit.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Emphasizes καπηλεύω as “to peddle or adulterate,” highlighting its metaphorical use in the New Testament to refer to those who exploit the Word of God for personal gain.
• Thayers: Provides a definition of καπηλεύω as “to be a retailer or peddler,” often with a pejorative sense of trading in an unworthy or deceitful manner.
• Vines: Points out the usage of καπηλεύω in the New Testament as a warning against the commercialization of spiritual truths.
• LSJ: Lists καπηλεύω in the broader sense of “to trade,” but notes its more specific application in texts that critique moral character.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines καπηλεύω as G2585 and discusses its implications for sincerity and truthfulness, particularly in religious contexts.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 2:17: “For we are not, like so many, peddlers [καπηλεύοντες] of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καπηλεύω (G2585)

The verb καπηλεύω (kapeleuo) captures the act of peddling or corrupting, particularly when associated with dishonesty or profiteering. It is often used in a metaphorical sense in the New Testament to warn against the exploitation of spiritual teachings for personal gain. Understanding this word enhances our grasp of ethical standards and integrity within early Christian communities and provides a cultural context for how commerce was perceived.

Did You Know?

• The negative connotation of καπηλεύω originates from Greek societal views on dishonest trade practices.
• In ancient Athens, street peddlers were often distrusted and associated with dishonesty, influencing the word’s development.
• The only New Testament usage of καπηλεύω is in 2 Corinthians 2:17, underscoring its unique emphasis on sincerity in ministry.