Introduction

Understanding Greek words like καταβιβάζω (katabibazō) is crucial in Biblical studies for interpreting the New Testament and understanding ancient Greek culture. This verb, which means “to bring down” or “to cause to go down,” has both literal and metaphorical applications in biblical and classical texts. Its usage reflects various actions, from the physical act of lowering something to a metaphorical lowering of status or spirit.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταβιβάζω, transliterated as katabibazō, pronounced [ka-ta-bi-BA-zo].
• Etymology: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down”) and βιβάζω (bibazō, meaning “to cause to go”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; active voice.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To bring down, to lower.
• To cause to descend, especially from a higher to a lower position.

Similar Words: καταβιβάζω is closely related to καταβαίνω (katabainō) [ka-ta-BAI-no], which means “to go down” or “to descend.” While καταβιβάζω implies causing something else to go down, καταβαίνω focuses more on the act of descending itself.

Further Insights: καταβιβάζω is an active verb, typically used in contexts where one causes something or someone else to descend. It appears in various grammatical forms depending on tense, voice, and mood.

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταβιβάζω as “to bring down,” often used in a literal sense but can also imply lowering someone’s status or position.
• Thayers: Describes καταβιβάζω primarily in the context of physical descent, such as lowering a person or object.
• Vines: Highlights the word’s metaphorical usage in spiritual or moral contexts.
• LSJ: Emphasizes the broader applications of καταβιβάζω, including both literal and metaphorical meanings.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καταβιβάζω as “to cause to go down,” noting its usage in various Greek writings.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 11:23: “And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down [καταβιβάζω] to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταβιβάζω (G2601)

The Greek word καταβιβάζω (katabibazō) primarily means “to bring down” or “to cause to descend.” It is used both literally and metaphorically to describe physical movements or declines in status or morality. This verb appears in various Greek texts, reflecting its versatile usage in both spiritual and secular contexts.

Did You Know?

• καταβιβάζω can denote both physical and metaphorical descents, such as a decline in power or authority.
• The word appears frequently in both the New Testament and the Septuagint, indicating its importance in Biblical literature.
• In classical Greek, καταβιβάζω was often used in legal and political contexts to describe the demotion or punishment of individuals.