Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuances and depth of scriptural meanings. The Greek word κατασείω (kataseiō) is particularly significant as it appears in contexts involving motion or shaking. It carries a vivid sense of agitation or causing a disturbance, which can be both literal and metaphorical. This term has relevance in interpreting New Testament passages and understanding ancient Greek culture’s descriptions of movement and actions that cause alarm or attention.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατασείω (kataseiō) [ka-ta-SAY-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix κατα- (kata-), meaning “down” or “against,” and the verb σείω (seiō), meaning “to shake” or “to stir.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. It appears in various tenses and voices in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To shake or agitate violently.
• To cause a disturbance or stir up.
• To signal or make a gesture, typically by shaking or moving something vigorously.

Similar Words

• σεισμός (seismos) [says-MOS]: Means “earthquake” or “shaking.” It refers more to a natural, seismic event rather than an intentional action of shaking.
• τρεμίζω (tremizō) [tre-MEE-zo]: Means “to tremble” or “to quiver.” It implies a less violent, more subtle shaking, often caused by fear or weakness.
• κινέω (kineō) [kee-NEH-oh]: Means “to move” or “to set in motion.” It carries a broader meaning of movement, not necessarily involving violent or agitating motion like κατασείω.

Morphological Features

• Tense, Voice, Mood: κατασείω appears in various tenses, including the present and aorist. It is commonly used in the active voice but can also be found in the middle or passive forms. It appears in different moods, such as the indicative and imperative.

Examples of Morphological Usage

• Present Indicative Active: Describes a continuous or repeated action.
• 1st Person Singular: κατασείω (I shake)
• 3rd Person Plural: κατασείουσι(ν) (they shake)
• Aorist Indicative Active: Indicates a simple, completed action in the past.
• 1st Person Singular: κατέσεισα (I shook)
• 3rd Person Plural: κατέσεισαν (they shook)
• Aorist Imperative Active: A command to perform the action.
• 2nd Person Singular: κατάσεισον (shake!)
• 2nd Person Plural: κατασείσατε (shake, you all!)

Below is a conjugation table for the Present Indicative Active form of κατασείω:

Aspect: The verb κατασείω conveys different aspects depending on the tense. The imperfective aspect (present tense) emphasizes ongoing or repeated action, while the perfective aspect (aorist tense) highlights a single, completed action of shaking or causing a disturbance.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

The Greek word κατασείω (kataseiō) is used in the New Testament to describe actions that involve shaking or signaling in a way that causes a disturbance or draws attention. For example, in Matthew 27:24, Pilate “washed his hands” and then “signaled” to the crowd, using κατασείω to convey the idea of a gesture made to emphasize his statement. The term often implies not just a physical motion but also an attempt to communicate or agitate.

In classical Greek literature, κατασείω was commonly used to describe not only literal shaking or agitation but also metaphorical actions that cause a stir among people or within a community. It reflects the ancient Greek understanding of actions that provoke strong reactions, whether through gestures or more forceful means. This aligns with its New Testament usage, where the word adds a layer of intensity to the description of events or actions.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 27:24: “When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but rather that a riot was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, saying, ‘I am innocent of this Man’s blood; see to that yourselves.’ And he signaled (κατέσεισε) to the crowd.”
• Acts 12:17: “But motioning (κατασείσας) to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had led him out of the prison.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατασείω (G2678)

The Greek word κατασείω (kataseiō) holds significant importance in Biblical and classical contexts. In the New Testament, it describes actions involving physical shaking or signaling to communicate or provoke a response. In classical Greek literature, it often carries a more literal sense of shaking or stirring up, whether in the context of battle or divine intervention. This word enriches our understanding of the dramatic actions and gestures recorded in the Bible, highlighting both physical movement and metaphorical agitation.

Did You Know?

1. κατασείω is used in both Biblical and classical contexts to describe not only physical shaking but also gestures that communicate authority or emotion.
2. In Greek literature, κατασείω often describes the actions of gods or heroes, emphasizing power and impact.
3. The word’s use in the Septuagint aligns closely with its New Testament usage, reflecting its role in conveying dramatic and powerful gestures or movements.