Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuances and depths of the original texts. The Greek word καταλείπω (kataleipō), meaning “to leave behind” or “to abandon,” plays a significant role in both New Testament interpretation and the study of ancient Greek culture. This term can carry connotations of intentional departure, abandonment, or simply the act of leaving something or someone. In Biblical contexts, it often refers to what remains after a person or a group departs, highlighting themes of legacy, faithfulness, or desolation.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταλείπω (kataleipō) [ka-ta-LAY-po]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from the prefix κατα- (kata-), meaning “down” or “against,” and the verb λείπω (leipō), meaning “to leave” or “to forsake.” Combined, these elements suggest a sense of leaving something behind.
• Part of Speech: Verb; it is used in various tenses and voices in the Greek New Testament.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To leave behind, abandon, or forsake.
• To leave remaining or to leave undone.
• To leave as a remnant.

Similar Words: ἀφίημι (aphiēmi) [a-FEE-ay-mee] also means “to leave” or “to forgive,” but it often implies a more immediate and intentional act of letting go, such as pardoning sins or releasing someone from obligation. ἐγκαταλείπω (enkataleipō) [en-ka-ta-LAY-po] means “to forsake” or “to abandon completely,” often with a stronger emphasis on desertion or neglect, especially in moments of need.

Further Insights: The word καταλείπω (kataleipō) is often used in the aorist and perfect tenses, indicating an action that has occurred or a state that has resulted from an action. The word can imply a negative sense of abandonment or a neutral sense of something that remains. Below is a table showing the various conjugations for the indicative mood:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταλείπω as “to leave behind” or “to forsake.” It highlights its use in contexts where a person or object is left in a place or state, often implying neglect or intentional departure.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Explains καταλείπω as leaving something in a certain state, whether that be a remnant of people, a location, or an action left undone. It also emphasizes its frequent use in contexts of desertion or abandonment.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Discusses καταλείπω as both an active and passive verb, meaning “to leave behind” or “to be left.” It often relates to the idea of forsaking or deserting something of importance or value.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists καταλείπω primarily as “to leave behind,” and notes its frequent appearance in both classical and Hellenistic Greek to describe someone or something that remains after a departure.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines καταλείπω as “to leave,” “to abandon,” or “to forsake.” Strong’s focuses on its theological implications in the New Testament, where it is often used metaphorically for spiritual neglect or abandonment.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 4:6: “Since therefore it remains [καταλείπω] for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience.” Here, the word is used to describe what is left for those who remain faithful.
• Romans 11:4: “But what is God’s reply to him? ‘I have kept for myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal.’” Here, καταλείπω is translated as “kept,” referring to a remnant that remains faithful.
• Matthew 19:27: “Then Peter said in reply, ‘See, we have left [καταλείπω] everything and followed you. What then will we have?’” This usage reflects a literal and figurative leaving behind of one’s former life to follow Christ.

Classical Usage

Summary of καταλείπω (G2641: kataleipō)

The Greek word καταλείπω (kataleipō) carries significant theological weight in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. It primarily means “to leave behind” or “to abandon,” and it can refer to both literal and figurative departures. The word often suggests a sense of what remains after others have left or a deliberate decision to forsake something. This word is rich in theological implications, reflecting the dynamics of God’s faithfulness, human faithfulness, and the consequences of disobedience.

Did You Know?

1. In ancient Greek philosophy, καταλείπω was used metaphorically to describe the act of leaving behind ignorance to pursue knowledge and truth.
2. The concept of a “remnant” left behind (kataleimma) is central to many Biblical prophecies and speaks to God’s enduring faithfulness.
3. In the Septuagint, the word καταλείπω often appears in contexts where God’s judgment leads to a remnant being “left behind,” underscoring themes of hope and restoration amidst desolation.