Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for gaining a deeper insight into the original meanings and nuances of the Scriptures. The Greek word κατάκρισις (katákrisis) is particularly significant as it embodies the concept of condemnation or judgment. It appears in various contexts within ancient Greek literature and the New Testament, often referring to a formal or legal judgment against someone. By exploring κατάκρισις, we can better understand how early Christians and ancient Greek society viewed judgment, justice, and the process of condemnation.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατάκρισις (katákrisis) [ka-TAH-kri-sis]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and κρίσις (krisis, meaning “judgment” or “decision”).
• Part of Speech: Noun; feminine; third declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Condemnation or judgment.
• A formal judicial decision against someone.
• The act of sentencing or pronouncing a verdict of guilt.

Similar Words: κρίσις (krisis) [KREE-sis], meaning “judgment” or “decision,” refers more broadly to the act of judging or deciding, without necessarily implying a negative or condemning outcome. In contrast, καταδίκη (katadikē) [ka-ta-dee-KAY], meaning “condemnation” or “penalty,” focuses more specifically on the legal or punitive aspect of judgment.

Further Insights: The noun κατάκρισις is formed by combining the prefix κατά, which intensifies the meaning, with κρίσις, indicating a more severe or final judgment. Below is a table showing the declension of κατάκρισις in the singular and plural forms:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes κατάκρισις as “condemnation, judgment,” particularly highlighting its use in legal and theological contexts where a formal decision of guilt or punishment is rendered.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Notes that κατάκρισις specifically refers to “a sentence of condemnation,” emphasizing the official pronouncement of a negative verdict in a court or divine context.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Explains κατάκρισις as “a condemnation or sentence,” and suggests that it carries a strong sense of finality in judgment, often associated with divine justice.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Indicates that κατάκρισις is commonly used in classical Greek to denote “a judgment against” or “condemnation,” with a focus on formal legal proceedings and outcomes.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines κατάκρισις simply as “condemnation,” and directs readers to its related verb form, κατακρίνω, for further study of its usage and meanings.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 3:9 – “For if the ministry of condemnation [κατάκρισις] has glory, much more does the ministry of righteousness abound in glory.”
• Romans 8:1 – While not using κατάκρισις directly, the context speaks about the concept: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατάκρισις (G2633: katákrisis)

The Greek noun κατάκρισις (katákrisis), meaning “condemnation” or “judgment,” is a powerful term that is critical for understanding themes of divine justice, human guilt, and final judgment in both Biblical and classical texts. In the New Testament, κατάκρισις appears in theological discussions about the law and grace, highlighting the contrast between divine condemnation and divine righteousness. In classical Greek literature, it is often used to reflect societal or divine condemnation of unjust actions, offering insight into the values of justice and morality in ancient cultures. By studying κατάκρισις, we can better appreciate the serious implications of judgment and condemnation in both the temporal and eternal realms, as understood by early Christians and their Greek contemporaries.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The concept of κατάκρισις in the New Testament is often contrasted with the concept of justification (δικαίωσις, dikaiōsis), underscoring the transformative power of grace over law.
• Fact 2: In classical Greek literature, κατάκρισις could apply to both human and divine judgments, reflecting a belief in moral consequences beyond earthly courts.
• Fact 3: The legal implications of κατάκρισις in ancient Greek society extended beyond mere condemnation to include social ostracism and public shame.

Understanding κατάκρισις provides valuable insights into how justice, judgment, and condemnation were perceived and conveyed in both the New Testament and ancient Greek literature.