Introduction

Understanding the original Greek words of the New Testament is crucial for deepening our comprehension of biblical texts. The Greek word κατανύσσομαι (katanyssomai) is particularly significant in biblical studies as it conveys a vivid image of being “pierced through” or “deeply pricked.” This word reflects a powerful, emotional reaction, often associated with remorse, conviction, or a moment of spiritual awakening. Knowing its meaning can provide deeper insights into New Testament passages that discuss repentance and spiritual transformation, as well as a better understanding of how ancient Greek culture perceived intense emotional and spiritual experiences.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατανύσσομαι (katanyssomai) [ka-TAN-ys-soh-mai]
• Etymology Root Words and Their Meanings: Derived from κατά (kata-), meaning “down” or “according to,” and νύσσω (nysso), meaning “to prick” or “to pierce.” Together, these root words convey the sense of being pierced deeply or thoroughly.
• Part of Speech: Verb; it is in the passive voice, usually indicating an action received or experienced by the subject, often describing a profound internal impact or feeling.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To be pierced or pricked deeply
• To experience a profound emotional or spiritual impact
• To feel a sharp, inward conviction or compunction

Similar Words: πικραίνω (pikraino) [pi-KRAI-no], meaning “to embitter” or “to provoke,” is related but differs from κατανύσσομαι in that it focuses on causing bitterness or resentment rather than a deep, piercing conviction. While both can involve emotional reactions, κατανύσσομαι leans more toward spiritual conviction or a piercing realization that prompts change.

Further Insights: The verb κατανύσσομαι is unique in that it emphasizes a passive reception of a profound inner experience—such as being emotionally or spiritually “pierced” by truth or realization. This concept is vital for understanding moments in scripture where individuals or groups experience a sudden awareness or conviction that leads to repentance or deeper spiritual understanding. The word is often used metaphorically rather than literally. Below is a table showing the conjugation of κατανύσσομαι in the present tense:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes κατανύσσομαι as “to be pierced or pricked deeply,” often in a metaphorical sense related to emotional or spiritual conviction. It emphasizes the suddenness and intensity of the experience, leading to significant internal reflection or change.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Defines κατανύσσομαι as “to be pricked in the heart,” primarily focusing on the metaphorical use where one experiences a sharp conviction or emotional response to a divine truth. It is often associated with the preaching of the Gospel and the resulting conviction that leads to repentance.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Explains κατανύσσομαι as referring to “deep spiritual or emotional penetration,” particularly when someone hears a powerful message that exposes their inner state or need for change.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists κατανύσσομαι in the broader context of Greek literature, emphasizing its use to describe intense emotional states or reactions that result from profound realizations or experiences.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Highlights the verb’s connotation of being pierced or pricked, both literally and figuratively. It underscores the emotional and spiritual impact that follows such an experience.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 2:37: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked [κατενύγησαν] in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (The Greek verb κατανύσσομαι here is in the aorist passive, showing a sudden and profound conviction experienced by the hearers after Peter’s sermon.)

Classical Usage

Summary of κατανύσσομαι (G2660: katanyssomai)

The Greek verb κατανύσσομαι (katanyssomai) captures a profound sense of being emotionally or spiritually pierced, often leading to deep introspection, repentance, or a renewed commitment to faith. Its usage in the New Testament, particularly in Acts 2:37, demonstrates the power of divine truth to convict and transform the hearts of listeners. Additionally, its presence in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint shows its broader application in describing intense emotional states, whether in philosophical or theological contexts.

Did You Know?

1. The word κατανύσσομαι is often used in the passive voice, emphasizing the impact or action received by a person rather than something they actively do, highlighting the power of divine truth or realization.
2. In the Septuagint, κατανύσσομαι and its forms are used metaphorically to describe the deep conviction that can lead to spiritual change or revelation, often depicting God’s piercing truth.
3. The term reflects a vivid imagery of being pricked or pierced deeply, which can be likened to the modern concept of a “wake-up call” in spiritual contexts.