Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for grasping the full depth of theological concepts. The word καταβραβεύω (katabrabeuō) is particularly significant as it appears in contexts involving condemnation, judgment, or deprivation of rewards. Its usage in the New Testament offers insight into spiritual dynamics and disputes within early Christian communities, making it a valuable term for both biblical exegesis and understanding ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταβραβεύω, transliterated as katabrabeuō, pronounced [ka-ta-bra-VEH-o].
• Etymology: Derived from κατά (kata, “down”) and βραβεύω (brabeuō, “to act as an umpire,” “to judge”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative, first-person singular.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To judge against or condemn.
• To deprive of a reward or act unfairly.

Similar Words: βραβεύω (brabeuō) [bra-VEH-o] means “to act as a judge” or “to arbitrate.” In contrast, καταβραβεύω emphasizes a negative or condemning action, usually implying a sense of unfairness or an unwarranted decision against someone.

Further Insights: καταβραβεύω is a compound verb that combines κατά (“down”) with βραβεύω (“to judge”), indicating a decisive, often negative, action. The term’s morphological construction suggests a firm, downward judgment or condemnation.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Interprets καταβραβεύω as “to condemn or judge against,” highlighting contexts where spiritual deception or manipulation might occur.
• Thayers: Defines it as a judicial act of condemning or deciding against someone, often relating to disputes over religious practices.
• Vines: Explores the word in the context of depriving someone of a reward or inheritance, emphasizing its negative impact on spiritual growth.
• LSJ: Notes its general use in Greek literature to mean judging against someone or condemning a person’s actions.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καταβραβεύω as “to decide against or judge unfavorably,” often with spiritual implications in a New Testament context.

Related Scripture References

• Colossians 2:18: “Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by delighting in self-abasement and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on visions he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind” (using καταβραβεύω to indicate being judged unfairly).

Classical Usage

Summary of καταβραβεύω (G2603)

The Greek verb καταβραβεύω (katabrabeuō) translates to “to condemn” or “to judge against,” and it conveys the idea of rendering an unjust verdict or stripping someone of their reward. Its application in New Testament passages serves as a warning against false judgment and emphasizes the importance of fairness in spiritual matters. The word is deeply rooted in both Greek culture and early Christian teachings.

Did You Know?

• The term βραβεύω originally had an athletic connotation related to judging a competition or awarding prizes.
• In early Christian literature, καταβραβεύω is often used to describe spiritual deception or manipulation that could cause believers to lose their spiritual inheritance.
• The usage of καταβραβεύω reflects a broader cultural context of fairness and justice, which was highly valued in ancient Greek society.