Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it brings out the nuances and depth of the original text. The Greek word καταισχύνω (kataischynō) is particularly significant because it relates to the concept of shame or disgrace. This verb is found throughout the New Testament, where it conveys the idea of causing someone to feel ashamed, dishonored, or humiliated. By exploring καταισχύνω, we can better grasp how early Christian writers expressed ideas of honor, shame, and societal expectations, which were central to both the Greco-Roman world and the Biblical narrative.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταισχύνω (kataischynō) [ka-tai-SKHOO-no]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and αἰσχύνω (aischynō, meaning “to shame” or “to dishonor”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; it can appear in various tenses, voices, and moods.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To put to shame or disgrace.
• To dishonor or humiliate.
• To confound or cause to feel embarrassed.

Similar Words: A related Greek word is ἐπαισχύνομαι (epaischynomai) [e-pai-SKHY-no-my], which also means “to be ashamed.” However, while ἐπαισχύνομαι often refers to the internal feeling of shame or embarrassment, καταισχύνω emphasizes the action of causing shame or disgrace upon another, typically in a public or communal context.

Further Insights: The verb καταισχύνω is composed of the prefix κατά (kata), which means “down” or “against,” and αἰσχύνω (aischynō), meaning “to shame.” This combination intensifies the action, implying a forceful or significant disgrace or humiliation. Below is a table showing the present indicative active form of καταισχύνω:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταισχύνω as “to dishonor” or “to put to shame,” emphasizing contexts where an individual or group is publicly humiliated or disgraced.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Describes καταισχύνω as “to put to shame” or “to make ashamed,” often used in both literal and figurative contexts where someone is made to feel embarrassed or dishonored.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Highlights the verb’s meaning of “to cause someone to feel shame” or “to disgrace,” particularly in spiritual contexts where it is used to describe being shamed before God or the community.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes that καταισχύνω was used in classical Greek to denote “disgrace” or “humiliation,” particularly in political or social contexts where one party seeks to dishonor another.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Simply defines καταισχύνω as “to disgrace” or “to confound,” underscoring its use in contexts where shame or dishonor is imposed.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 9:33 – “As it is written, ‘Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, and he who believes in Him will not be put to shame [καταισχυνθῇ].’”
• 1 Peter 2:6 – “For this is contained in Scripture: ‘Behold, I lay in Zion a choice stone, a precious cornerstone, and he who believes in Him will not be disappointed [καταισχυνθῇ].’”
• 1 John 2:28 – “Now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame [καταισχυνθῶμεν] at His coming.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταισχύνω (G2617: kataischynō)

The Greek verb καταισχύνω, meaning “to put to shame” or “to disgrace,” is essential for understanding the dynamics of honor and shame in both Biblical and classical contexts. It emphasizes the act of causing someone to feel humiliated, dishonored, or disgraced, whether in a social, political, or spiritual context. In the New Testament, καταισχύνω is often used to describe the experience of shame or dishonor, especially in relation to one’s faith and standing before God. The use of καταισχύνω in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint further highlights its significance in conveying the concept of disgrace, whether as a result of moral failure, societal judgment, or divine condemnation.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The prefix “kata-” in καταισχύνω adds intensity, suggesting a strong or forceful act of bringing someone “down” in disgrace or shame.
• Fact 2: In the New Testament, καταισχύνω is used to comfort believers, assuring them that faith in Christ will prevent them from experiencing ultimate shame or disappointment.
• Fact 3: In classical Greek society, public shame or disgrace was a severe consequence, often affecting not just the individual but their entire family or community, making the use of καταισχύνω particularly impactful.

Understanding καταισχύνω provides valuable insights into Biblical narratives and classical Greek literature, illuminating how language conveys themes of honor, shame, and societal expectations in both sacred and secular contexts.