Introduction

Understanding the Greek word καίω (kaiō) is vital for biblical studies and interpreting New Testament passages where fire, burning, or consuming by fire is mentioned. The word carries both literal and metaphorical meanings, reflecting its significance in ancient Greek culture and its influence on theological discussions about purification, judgment, and divine presence.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: καίω, transliterated as kaiō, pronounced [KAH-yo].
• Etymology: Derived from a primary verb meaning “to set on fire” or “to burn.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; used in various grammatical forms to denote actions involving burning or lighting.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To burn: To consume with fire, often referring to physical burning.
• To kindle: To start a fire or ignite something.
• To light: Commonly used in contexts where lamps or torches are lit.

Similar Words: πυρόω (puroō) [py-ROH-o] is another Greek word related to fire, meaning “to burn” or “to set on fire,” but it often carries the connotation of refining or purifying through fire, differing from καίω, which generally focuses on the act of burning or igniting.

Further Insights: καίω is a primary verb and does not have declensions as nouns or adjectives do. Its various forms reflect different tenses and voices, allowing it to express actions such as “I burn,” “I will burn,” or “I was burned.” This flexibility makes it applicable in both active and passive contexts.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καίω as a verb meaning “to cause to burn” or “to light something,” used both in literal contexts (e.g., burning wood or incense) and metaphorical ones (e.g., inflaming passions or emotions).
• Thayers: Notes the use of καίω in both active (to set something on fire) and passive (to be on fire) forms. It appears frequently in the Septuagint, often in sacrificial contexts.
• Vines: Emphasizes καίω as part of the ritual language in the New Testament, particularly in passages referring to judgment or divine action involving fire.
• LSJ: Offers a broad definition that includes lighting, burning, and setting ablaze, with examples ranging from Homeric poetry to later Hellenistic writings.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καίω as a fundamental verb meaning “to burn,” “to set on fire,” and highlights its use in both physical and symbolic contexts in the Bible.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 13:30: “Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, ‘First gather up the tares and bind them in bundles to burn [καίω] them up; but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
• Revelation 8:8: “And something like a great mountain burning [καίω] with fire was thrown into the sea, and a third of the sea became blood.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καίω (G2545)

The Greek verb καίω (kaiō) is central to understanding numerous biblical passages that discuss fire, both literally and metaphorically. As a verb, it primarily means “to burn” or “to set on fire,” with nuances that extend into theological interpretations of judgment, purification, and divine presence. Its use across the New Testament and classical literature showcases its versatility and depth, making it a significant term for both scholars and students of biblical texts.

Did You Know?

• καίω is used both in the literal sense of burning and metaphorically to represent emotional or spiritual fervor.
• In the Septuagint, καίω often appears in contexts involving divine encounters, such as the burning bush.
• The word has roots in ancient Greek literature, making it a staple in understanding Greek idioms and metaphors related to fire and light.