Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for unlocking the original meaning of the scriptures and gaining a deeper insight into the teachings of the New Testament. The Greek word καταλαλιά (katalalia) is particularly significant as it refers to “slander” or “evil speaking.” This term appears in contexts that emphasize ethical behavior among believers, warning against destructive speech that can harm others and disrupt community harmony. Additionally, exploring this word helps us better understand ancient Greek culture, where the spoken word held great power in both personal and public life.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταλαλιά (katalalia) [ka-ta-la-LEE-ah]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from καταλαλέω (katalaleō), where κατά (kata) means “against” and λαλέω (laleō) means “to speak.”
• Part of Speech: Noun; feminine, first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Slander
• Evil speaking
• Defamation

Similar Words: διαβολή (diabolē) [dee-a-bo-LAY], meaning “false accusation” or “calumny,” has a similar meaning but is often associated with more severe accusations or false charges. κακολογία (kakologia) [ka-ko-lo-GHEE-ah], meaning “abusive speech” or “reviling,” can also overlap in meaning but often focuses on general harsh or harmful language rather than specific slander or defamation.

Further Insights: καταλαλιά is a noun form derived from the verb καταλαλέω (to speak against). As a first declension feminine noun, it follows the typical declension pattern, which is crucial for proper translation and understanding in different contexts. Here is the declension of καταλαλιά in the singular and plural forms:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes καταλαλιά as “slander” or “evil speech,” emphasizing its negative impact on relationships and community harmony within the Christian context. The lexicon notes its usage in the New Testament to warn against divisive behavior that can damage both personal reputations and the integrity of the church.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Defines it as “evil-speaking, detraction, slander,” and highlights the ethical implications, especially in exhortations to believers to maintain purity of speech and avoid causing discord through harmful words.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Explains καταλαλιά as “slanderous talk” and points out its connotation of speaking maliciously about others, often behind their backs. Vine’s emphasizes its destructive nature within a community.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes the broader classical usage of the term in both public and private contexts, where slander or harmful speech could have legal, social, or moral repercussions, reflecting its broader cultural significance.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines καταλαλιά as “defamation” or “evil-speaking,” focusing on its roots in καταλαλέω and its connotation of speaking ill against someone, often with malicious intent.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Peter 2:1 – “Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander [καταλαλιάν].”
• 2 Corinthians 12:20 – “For I am afraid that perhaps when I come I may find you to be not what I wish and may be found by you to be not what you wish; that perhaps there will be strife, jealousy, angry tempers, disputes, slanders [καταλαλιαί], gossip, arrogance, disturbances.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταλαλιά (G2636: katalalia)

The Greek noun καταλαλιά (katalalia), meaning “slander” or “evil speaking,” plays a critical role in understanding the New Testament’s teachings on ethical speech and conduct within the Christian community. The term signifies the act of speaking against someone, often maliciously, and is heavily emphasized in Biblical contexts where maintaining unity and harmony is of utmost importance. Lexicon insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, and other sources highlight the destructive nature of καταλαλιά in both religious and secular settings. Its use in the Septuagint and classical Greek literature further underscores the broader cultural and ethical implications of slander and defamation, making it a key concept for interpreting both scripture and ancient societal norms.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The word καταλαλιά is not just about lying; it encompasses any harmful or malicious speech that intends to damage another person’s reputation.
• Fact 2: In ancient Greek culture, slander could have legal consequences, reflecting the seriousness with which speech was regarded.
• Fact 3: The New Testament writers, such as Paul and Peter, frequently warn against καταλαλιά to foster communities grounded in love, truth, and mutual respect.

Understanding καταλαλιά provides essential insights into the ethical framework of early Christianity and the importance of guarding one’s speech to promote peace and unity within a community.