Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies because they often reveal nuanced meanings that are not always captured in translations. The Greek word καταλιθάζω (katathlázō) is significant for its depiction of ancient judicial practices, particularly in the context of punishment by stoning. This word is relevant for interpreting certain New Testament passages and understanding the legal and cultural practices of ancient Greek and Jewish societies.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταλιθάζω (katathlázō) [ka-ta-LEE-thah-zo]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: The word is composed of the prefix κατα- (kata-), meaning “down” or “against,” and λιθάζω (litházō), meaning “to stone.” Combined, the word literally means “to stone to death” or “to pelt with stones.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; typically used in the context of legal or punitive actions.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To stone someone to death.
• To pelt with stones in a judicial or mob action.

Similar Words: λιθάζω (litházō) [lee-THAH-zo] also means “to stone,” but without the emphasis on the thoroughness or finality implied by the prefix κατα-. βασανίζω (basanízō) [ba-sa-NEE-zo], meaning “to torment” or “to torture,” can sometimes imply a prolonged or extreme form of punishment, differing from the more immediate and terminal action implied by καταλιθάζω.

Further Insights: The word καταλιθάζω (katathlázō) is used in both the passive and active voices, typically indicating an action that is decisively carried out. It conveys a sense of collective or judicial condemnation resulting in a fatal outcome. Below is a table showing the various conjugations for the indicative mood:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: καταλιθάζω is defined as “to stone to death,” emphasizing its usage in legal contexts where stoning was a prescribed punishment for certain offenses.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Discusses καταλιθάζω as a term used primarily in judicial sentences. It elaborates on the word’s use in biblical contexts where stoning was a common method of execution for blasphemy, adultery, and other serious crimes.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Points out that καταλιθάζω is not a frequently used term in the New Testament but is significant in illustrating the severity of certain Old Testament laws and their cultural implications.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Provides definitions for καταλιθάζω that range from “to pelt with stones” to “to stone to death,” citing examples from both classical and Hellenistic literature.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines καταλιθάζω as “to stone” or “to throw stones down upon,” with an emphasis on its use in contexts of mob justice or sanctioned legal execution.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 20:6: “But if we say, ‘Of men,’ all the people will stone [καταλιθάζω] us; for they are persuaded that John was a prophet.” Here, καταλιθάζω is used to convey the potential violent reaction of the crowd if their expectations are not met.

Classical Usage

Summary of καταλιθάζω (G2642: katathlázō)

The Greek word καταλιθάζω (katathlázō) is primarily used to describe the act of stoning someone to death, a common form of capital punishment in ancient times. This word is significant in Biblical studies as it provides insight into the cultural and legal practices of both Jewish and Hellenistic societies. The term’s use in both the New Testament and the Septuagint underscores its relevance in conveying themes of justice, judgment, and community-sanctioned punishment. While not frequently used in the New Testament, its occurrence highlights the gravity of situations involving collective punishment or mob justice.

Did You Know?

1. Stoning, or καταλιθάζω, was considered one of the most severe forms of punishment in ancient Jewish and Greek societies, often reserved for what were considered the most grievous offenses.
2. The term καταλιθάζω appears in both the New Testament and the Septuagint, reflecting its role as a method of both legal and extrajudicial execution.
3. While the word καταλιθάζω is rare in the New Testament, its concept is frequently discussed in relation to the harshness of Old Testament law and the transformation brought by the New Covenant.

These insights highlight the rich linguistic, cultural, and theological dimensions of καταλιθάζω in ancient texts.