Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies provides crucial insights into the original meaning and context of Scripture. The Greek word κατασύρω (katasýrō) is particularly significant for its unique usage and connotations in the New Testament. This verb helps us understand the depth of certain passages, particularly those involving forceful actions or movements. Its interpretation reveals much about the socio-cultural dynamics of ancient Greek culture, especially regarding power, control, and conflict.

Key Information

The Greek Word:

• Greek Word: κατασύρω
• Transliteration: katasýrō
• Pronunciation: ka-tas-OO-ro

Etymology:

• Root Words: Derived from the preposition κατά (katá) meaning “down, against” and the verb σύρω (sýrō) meaning “to drag or draw.” The combination gives the sense of “dragging down” or “pulling forcibly.”

Part of Speech:

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Grammatical Details: This verb is in the present tense, active voice, and indicative mood in its typical New Testament usage, conveying a continuous or repeated action.

The F.O.G Word Choice:

• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To drag down: The most basic sense of the word involves forcibly dragging something or someone downward.
• To bring by force: It can also mean to carry or bring someone along with force or coercion, often used metaphorically to describe overpowering someone.
• To pull away: Indicates pulling or dragging away from a place, typically against the will of the one being dragged.

Similar Words

• σύρω (sýrō) – Pronunciation: SOO-roh
  Meaning: To drag or draw; less forceful than κατασύρω, which emphasizes a downward or overpowering motion.
• ἑλκύω (helkýō) – Pronunciation: hel-KOO-oh
  Meaning: To draw or pull; often used in the context of drawing water or drawing something gently.
• ἄγω (ágō) – Pronunciation: AG-oh
  Meaning: To lead or bring; more commonly used in the context of guiding or leading someone.

Morphological Features

For Verbs:

• Tense, Voice, Mood:
• Tense: Present
• Voice: Active
• Mood: Indicative
• Person and Number:
• Examples include first person singular (κατασύρω – I drag down), second person singular (κατασύρεις – you drag down), third person singular (κατασύρει – he/she/it drags down), and so on for plural forms.
• Aspect:
• Imperfective: This indicates an ongoing or repeated action, reflecting the continuous nature of the act of dragging or pulling.

Conjugation Table (Present Indicative Active)

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

The word κατασύρω (katasýrō) appears in various contexts in ancient Greek literature and the New Testament, often conveying a strong, forceful action. It is used to describe scenarios involving dragging or pulling with coercion, suggesting a significant physical or metaphorical power dynamic. For instance, in the New Testament, it is used to depict moments of conflict or domination where someone is forcibly removed or brought under control. The term is imbued with theological implications, illustrating human resistance against divine will or adversarial actions.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Related Scripture References

• James 2:6: “But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and [drag you (κατασύρουσιν)] into court?”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατασύρω (G2694)

The Greek word κατασύρω (katasýrō), translated as “to drag down” or “bring by force,” is a powerful verb in Biblical Greek, illustrating moments of conflict, domination, and forceful action. Its usage in the New Testament, such as in James 2:6, offers insights into societal dynamics and theological themes. The word’s usage in classical Greek literature further reveals its broader cultural context, highlighting its relevance in discussions of power, control, and resistance.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The root word σύρω (sýrō) also means “to drag,” but without the strong connotation of “against” or “downward” that κατασύρω carries.
• Fact 2: κατασύρω appears only once in the New Testament, making its study significant for understanding its unique context.
• Fact 3: In ancient Greek, the word could be used both literally and metaphorically, such as dragging a person or a city into ruin.