Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for interpreting Biblical texts, as they often contain layers of meaning that are lost in translation. The Greek preposition κατά (kata) is particularly significant in the New Testament. It appears frequently and carries a wide range of meanings depending on context, from “according to” to “against.” This versatility highlights the richness of Greek as a language and its impact on theological interpretations and understanding ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατά, transliterated as kata, pronounced [KA-ta].
• Etymology: Derived from a root meaning “down” or “against.”
• Part of Speech: Preposition, with varied meanings depending on case (genitive or accusative) it governs.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Against, down from (with the genitive case).
• According to, in relation to (with the accusative case).
• Throughout, during, or by (in various contexts).

Similar Words: καθ’ (kath’) [kath] is a related preposition meaning “down from” or “throughout.” While κατά can denote direction or opposition, καθ’ often specifies a more precise or intensified action.

Further Insights: κατά changes meaning based on the case it governs, reflecting its flexibility. When used with the genitive, it can imply opposition or direction. With the accusative, it frequently indicates conformity or a standard (“according to”). There are no declensions for κατά as it is a preposition, not a noun.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Outlines κατά as a versatile preposition, used to denote conformity, opposition, spatial relations, and temporal markers.
• Thayers: Emphasizes the directional meanings of κατά, particularly when used in metaphorical contexts, such as “against” in moral or ethical senses.
• Vines: Explores the figurative usage of κατά to denote standards or norms, especially in doctrinal contexts.
• LSJ: Offers a classical perspective, noting κατά as a preposition indicating “down” in a physical or metaphorical sense.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists κατά as G2596, with meanings spanning “according to,” “against,” and “down,” reflecting its broad utility in both the New Testament and Septuagint.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 1:1: “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.” (κατὰ translation: “according to”)
• Mark 1:2: “As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face…'” (καθώς translation: “according to”)
• Romans 8:4: “So that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” (κατὰ translation: “according to”)

Classical Usage

Summary of κατά (G2596)

The Greek word κατά (kata) plays a vital role in New Testament exegesis and Greek literature. Its multiple meanings—ranging from “against” to “according to”—offer flexibility in interpretation, providing depth to biblical and classical texts. Understanding the context of κατά can significantly alter the meaning of a passage, making it a word of great importance in theological studies.

Did You Know?

• κατά is one of the most frequently used prepositions in the New Testament, appearing over 450 times.
• It is foundational in conveying theological principles, especially regarding conformity to divine standards.
• The flexibility of κατά allows it to serve both literal and figurative purposes, making it a favorite tool among ancient Greek writers and philosophers.