Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for delving deeper into the meanings and nuances of the original texts. The Greek word κατακυριεύω (katakyrieuō) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of exercising dominion or control over someone or something. This word is relevant for interpreting New Testament passages where issues of authority, dominance, and submission are discussed. Additionally, it provides insights into how ancient Greek culture viewed power dynamics and authority, both in societal and theological contexts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατακυριεύω (katakyrieuō) [ka-ta-kur-ee-EH-o]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and κυριεύω (kyrieuō, meaning “to have dominion” or “to rule”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; middle or passive voice.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To have dominion over, to lord over.
• To overpower or subdue.
• To rule or exercise authority over.

Similar Words: κυριεύω (kyrieuō) [kur-ee-EH-o], meaning “to be lord” or “to have power,” refers more generally to having authority or control, while κατακυριεύω (katakyrieuō) intensifies this idea with the prefix “kata-” suggesting a more forceful or oppressive dominance.

Further Insights: κατακυριεύω is a compound verb that combines the prefix “kata-” (often implying “down” or “against”) with “kyrieuō” (to have lordship). This compound form intensifies the notion of ruling or dominating, suggesting a more forceful imposition of authority. The word often appears in contexts where authority is being wielded with considerable control or subjugation.

Below is a table showing the full conjugation of κατακυριεύω in the present tense:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Explains κατακυριεύω as “to have dominion over, to lord it over” and emphasizes its use in the New Testament in the context of leadership and authority, often in a negative sense of oppressive rule.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Describes it as “to lord against,” emphasizing the word’s connotation of ruling in a harsh or authoritarian manner. Thayer’s notes its New Testament application to spiritual or social authority.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Suggests κατακυριεύω means “to exercise dominion over” and is particularly used to indicate the improper use of authority, contrasting with Christ’s model of servant leadership.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Highlights the word’s use in classical Greek as “to overpower or master,” with applications in both political and personal dominance contexts.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines κατακυριεύω as “to lord against, to subjugate,” and links it to its root words for further exploration of its connotations of rulership and control.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 20:25 – “But Jesus called them to Himself and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it [κατακυριεύουσιν] over them, and their great men exercise authority over them.'”
• Mark 10:42 – “Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, ‘You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it [κατακυριεύουσιν] over them; and their great men exercise authority over them.'”
• 1 Peter 5:3 – “Nor yet as lording it [κατακυριεύοντες] over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατακυριεύω (G2634: katakyrieuō)

The Greek verb κατακυριεύω (katakyrieuō), meaning “to have dominion over” or “to exercise lordship,” plays a significant role in discussions about authority, leadership, and control within both the New Testament and classical Greek literature. In the New Testament, it is often used to describe a type of leadership that is contrary to the servant-leadership model exemplified by Jesus Christ. The term captures the concept of oppressive or heavy-handed rulership, making it a key term in understanding the nature of authority and submission in early Christian teachings. In classical Greek literature, the term is similarly used to discuss power dynamics, both in political and military contexts, providing a broader cultural backdrop to its New Testament usage.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The word κατακυριεύω is used to contrast the world’s style of leadership with the servant leadership that Jesus advocated for His followers.
• Fact 2: In Greek literature, κατακυριεύω was often used in military or political contexts to describe the subjugation of territories or peoples.
• Fact 3: The concept of κατακυριεύω provides insight into early Christian resistance to authoritarian rule, promoting a model of leadership based on humility and service.

Understanding κατακυριεύω enriches our comprehension of Biblical teachings on leadership and authority, showing a clear departure from the prevailing norms of the time toward a more compassionate, servant-oriented approach.