Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words used in the Bible is crucial for grasping the depth and nuances of its message. The Greek word κατάλυμα (katalyma) is particularly significant in Biblical studies as it is often associated with places of rest, hospitality, and lodging. This word appears in important passages of the New Testament, contributing to our understanding of ancient Greek culture, Jewish customs, and early Christian practices. Understanding κατάλυμα allows us to see how ancient people perceived spaces for gathering, resting, and receiving guests, providing context to the stories in which it appears.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατάλυμα (katalyma) [ka-TA-ly-ma]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata-), meaning “down” or “against,” and λύω (lyo), meaning “to loosen” or “to dissolve.” Thus, κατάλυμα literally conveys the idea of a “loosening down,” referring to a place where one could loosen or rest.
• Part of Speech: Noun; it is a neuter noun.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Lodging place
• Inn
• Guest room or upper room

Similar Words: πανδοχεῖον (pandocheion) [pan-do-KHEE-on], meaning “inn” or “public lodging place,” specifically refers to a commercial inn for travelers and is a more specific term than κατάλυμα, which can refer to any temporary lodging or even a guest room in a private home. Another similar word is δωμάτιον (domation) [do-MA-tion], meaning “chamber” or “room,” which refers to a smaller and more private space.

Further Insights: The noun κατάλυμα (katalyma) is often used to denote a place of lodging, whether a formal inn or a simple guest room. In the context of ancient Greek culture, hospitality was a crucial aspect, and a κατάλυμα provided not just shelter but also a place for social interaction and rest. Below is the declension of κατάλυμα in the singular and plural forms:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: κατάλυμα is defined as “a place to stay, lodging, inn.” It can refer to a variety of accommodations, from a formal inn for travelers to a guest room in a private home.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: This lexicon highlights κατάλυμα as “a lodging place or inn,” used in the New Testament to denote a place where people stay temporarily, such as an upper room.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Defines κατάλυμα as “lodging, place of rest,” emphasizing its use in the context of hospitality and temporary accommodation.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Provides a general definition, stating that κατάλυμα means “lodging place, inn, or guest chamber,” with examples from classical Greek literature where it is used in the context of shelter or lodging.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines κατάλυμα as “lodging place” or “guest chamber,” highlighting its use in Biblical narratives where hospitality and lodging are significant themes.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 2:7: “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn [κατάλυμα].”
• Mark 14:14: “And wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is My guest room [κατάλυμα] in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?”’”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατάλυμα (G2646: katalyma)

The Greek word κατάλυμα (katalyma) is a versatile noun that denotes a place of lodging or rest. It is used in the New Testament to describe an inn or a guest room where travelers could stay temporarily. The word carries significant theological and cultural weight, especially in contexts where hospitality is a central theme. In classical Greek literature, κατάλυμα was used to describe various types of accommodations, from simple resting places to more formal guest rooms for dignitaries. In Biblical texts, its usage highlights the importance of providing shelter and the cultural norms of hospitality during ancient times.

Did You Know?

1. The word κατάλυμα is traditionally translated as “inn” in Luke 2:7, but it more likely refers to a guest room, not a commercial inn.
2. In the Septuagint, κατάλυμα is used to describe a place where travelers stayed, often highlighting themes of divine encounters or provisions.
3. The concept of κατάλυμα was significant in the ancient world, where hospitality was not just a social nicety but a moral and religious duty.

Understanding κατάλυμα provides a richer insight into the Biblical narrative, especially regarding the cultural practices of hospitality and lodging during ancient times.