Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial for Biblical studies because it helps uncover the deeper meanings of scripture. The word καταγελάω (katagelaō) is particularly significant in this regard. Found in the New Testament, it is a verb with implications related to ridicule or scorn, which can provide insight into the social and cultural dynamics of ancient Greek society and how these influenced early Christian writings. By examining καταγελάω, we gain a better understanding of how emotions and attitudes were expressed and perceived in Biblical times, both in sacred and everyday contexts.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταγελάω (katagelaō) [ka-ta-GE-la-o]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata, meaning “down” or “against”) and γελάω (gelaō, meaning “to laugh”).
• Part of Speech: Verb; it can appear in various tenses and voices, such as present active or aorist passive.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To laugh at, mock, or ridicule.
• To deride or scorn, often in a contemptuous manner.

Similar Words: A related Greek word is ἐμπαίζω (empaizō) [em-PI-zō], which also means “to mock” or “to ridicule.” However, ἐμπαίζω is often used in a more physical sense, like “to mock physically” or “to trick,” whereas καταγελάω focuses more on verbal scorn or laughing at someone in a dismissive manner.

Further Insights: The verb καταγελάω is formed from the prefix κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and γελάω (gelaō), which means “to laugh.” This construction creates a sense of laughing “down upon” someone or something, suggesting a negative or demeaning attitude. In Greek grammar, καταγελάω can be conjugated in various forms depending on tense, mood, and voice. Below is a table showing the present indicative active form:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines καταγελάω as “to laugh at, ridicule, mock,” particularly in a derogatory or demeaning way. It emphasizes the contemptuous nature of the action, suggesting that it is not merely about laughter but about scornful mockery.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Describes καταγελάω as “to laugh at, deride,” and is often used in contexts where someone is mocked or scorned openly, indicating a social or interpersonal dynamic.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on the verb’s use in both secular and sacred contexts, emphasizing that it often carries a connotation of belittling or treating someone with contempt.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes that καταγελάω was used in classical Greek to denote “laughing to scorn,” showing its application in literature to express derision or contempt in a variety of situations.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Simply defines καταγελάω as “to deride,” underlining its use as a word for mocking or making fun of someone or something.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 9:24 – “He said, ‘Leave; for the girl has not died, but is asleep.’ And they began laughing [κατεγέλων] at Him.”
• Mark 5:40 – “They began laughing [κατεγέλων] at Him. But putting them all out, He took along the child’s father and mother and His own companions, and entered the room where the child was.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταγελάω (G2606: katagelaō)

The Greek verb καταγελάω, meaning “to laugh at” or “to ridicule,” provides valuable insights into the cultural and social aspects of the New Testament and ancient Greek society. Often used to denote scornful or contemptuous laughter, this verb is indicative of how derision and mockery were perceived and expressed in both secular and sacred texts. By exploring καταγελάω through its use in Biblical, classical, and Septuagint contexts, we can better understand the complexities of communication and emotion in ancient Greek culture.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: καταγελάω is one of several Greek verbs that convey different types of laughter, from joyous to scornful.
• Fact 2: In the New Testament, καταγελάω is mainly used in contexts where Jesus’ words or actions are met with disbelief or mockery.
• Fact 3: The prefix “kata-” in καταγελάω not only intensifies the verb but also implies directionality, suggesting laughter “down upon” someone or something, reinforcing the connotation of scorn or contempt.

Understanding καταγελάω enriches Biblical interpretation by shedding light on how emotions and social interactions were viewed in the ancient world.