Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for uncovering the depth and nuance of scripture. The word καταγγέλλω (kataggellō) is particularly significant because it carries profound implications for New Testament interpretation and provides insight into ancient Greek culture. As a term frequently used by early Christians, καταγγέλλω helps to reveal the foundational concepts of preaching, proclaiming, and making known in the context of the early church. It enriches our understanding of how the apostles communicated the message of Christ in the Greco-Roman world.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταγγέλλω (kataggellō) [ka-tang-GEL-lo]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: From κατά (kata, meaning “against” or “down”) and ἀγγέλλω (angellō, meaning “to announce” or “to proclaim”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; in the present active indicative form, it is conjugated as καταγγέλλω.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To declare, announce, or proclaim.
• To publicly preach or make known.
• To report, especially in a formal or solemn manner.

Similar Words: Another Greek word with a related meaning is κηρύσσω (kērussō) [kay-ROOS-so], which also means “to proclaim” or “to herald.” However, while κηρύσσω often emphasizes the role of the messenger (like a herald announcing news), καταγγέλλω is more focused on the content or message being proclaimed and its impact on the audience.

Further Insights: The verb καταγγέλλω is constructed from the prefix κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” which can convey intensity or thoroughness, and ἀγγέλλω (angellō), which means “to announce.” This construction suggests a strong emphasis on making something thoroughly known or proclaiming it widely. In Greek grammar, καταγγέλλω can be conjugated in various forms depending on tense, mood, and voice. Here is a chart showing the present indicative active form:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes καταγγέλλω as “to make known in public, to proclaim, preach.” The emphasis is on the public aspect of the proclamation, often in a formal or solemn setting.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Highlights καταγγέλλω as “to announce or declare openly,” especially in the context of preaching the Gospel. It frequently appears in contexts where an authoritative announcement is intended.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Discusses καταγγέλλω as a term for proclaiming news, particularly within the context of Christianity. It is often used to denote preaching or sharing the message of Jesus.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes the use of καταγγέλλω in both secular and religious contexts, focusing on the verb’s action of “proclaiming” or “reporting” something, sometimes with the connotation of “accusation” or “charge” in legal settings.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines καταγγέλλω simply as “to declare” or “to preach,” often with the implication of spreading news or making an official declaration.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 17:3 – “…explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, ‘This Jesus whom I am proclaiming [καταγγέλλω] to you is the Christ.'”
• 1 Corinthians 11:26 – “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim [καταγγέλλω] the Lord’s death until He comes.”
• Philippians 1:17 – “The former proclaim [καταγγέλλω] Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταγγέλλω (G2605: kataggellō)

The Greek verb καταγγέλλω, meaning “to proclaim” or “to make known,” is central to understanding how early Christians communicated their faith in a Greco-Roman world. It emphasizes public declaration, often in a formal or solemn context, and is used in various contexts within the New Testament to describe the preaching of the Gospel. Its use in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint further demonstrates its wide-ranging implications and flexibility in conveying the act of announcing or reporting. Knowing the nuances of καταγγέλλω enriches our grasp of its theological and historical significance in both Biblical and secular texts.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: καταγγέλλω is often used in legal contexts to mean “to charge” or “accuse,” showing its flexibility beyond religious texts.
• Fact 2: The term appears prominently in Paul’s letters, highlighting the importance of proclamation in the early Christian mission.
• Fact 3: καταγγέλλω is different from simple “saying” or “speaking” verbs; it often implies a formal declaration with authority.

By understanding the depth and varied usage of καταγγέλλω, readers gain a richer perspective on how this word shaped early Christian communication and proclamation.