Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies for grasping the full nuance and depth of the Scriptures. The Greek word καταστολή (katastolē) is particularly significant because it encompasses meanings related to order, decorum, and attire, providing insight into cultural and societal norms of the New Testament period. This term is relevant not only to New Testament interpretation but also to understanding ancient Greek culture, especially regarding expectations of behavior and presentation in both public and private settings.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταστολή (katastolē) [ka-ta-sto-LAY]
• Etymology: Derived from the root κατα- (kata-) meaning “down” or “according to” and στέλλω (stellō) meaning “to send” or “to set.” The combined meaning suggests “a setting down” or “a bringing into order.”
• Part of Speech: Noun; it typically refers to a manner of dress or an attitude of demeanor, reflecting a sense of orderliness or modesty.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A manner of dress or attire, often implying modesty or appropriateness.
• An attitude or demeanor that conveys orderliness, modesty, or propriety.
• An arrangement or order, particularly in social or public contexts.

Similar Words

• στέλλω (stellō) [STEL-loh]: Means “to send” or “to set,” focusing more on the action of arranging or sending something.
• κόσμος (kosmos) [KOS-mos]: Refers to “order” or “adornment,” often emphasizing the beauty or arrangement, but broader in scope than καταστολή.
• καταρτισμός (katartismos) [ka-tar-tee-SMOS]: Refers to “equipping” or “preparation,” implying a readiness or fit state but not specifically related to attire or demeanor.

Morphological Features

• Case, Number, Gender: The noun καταστολή is feminine in gender and can be found in both singular and plural forms. It takes different case endings depending on its grammatical function in a sentence (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).
• Declension: καταστολή follows the first declension pattern. Below is a declension table for its forms:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

The word καταστολή (katastolē) appears in various Greek lexicons with meanings that illuminate its use in both Biblical and classical contexts. In the New Testament, it is specifically associated with modesty and appropriate dress, as in the context of instructions given by the Apostle Paul regarding how women should adorn themselves. This use emphasizes modesty and propriety, highlighting the cultural and religious expectations of the early Christian communities.

In classical Greek literature, καταστολή could denote more broadly an arrangement, order, or demeanor, particularly in relation to how one presents oneself publicly. It was used to convey a sense of appropriateness or decorum, reflecting societal norms of modesty and orderliness.

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

Related Scripture References

• 1 Timothy 2:9: “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel [καταστολῇ], with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταστολή (G2689)

The Greek word καταστολή (katastolē) holds a significant place in Biblical and classical contexts, often referring to a manner of dress or demeanor that conveys modesty, order, or propriety. In Biblical texts, especially in the New Testament, it is closely related to discussions of how Christians, particularly women, should present themselves in a manner that reflects inner virtue and social norms of modesty. In classical Greek literature, it also captures the broader idea of decorum and orderly conduct.

Did You Know?

1. καταστολή (katastolē) is often translated as “modest apparel” in English Bibles, but its meaning extends to “demeanor” or “attitude,” suggesting a comprehensive idea of modesty beyond just clothing.
2. In classical Greek thought, maintaining a proper καταστολή was seen as a reflection of one’s inner virtues and moral standing.
3. The word καταστολή is derived from στέλλω (stellō), which can mean “to send” or “to arrange,” indicating an action of “ordering” oneself in a specific, socially acceptable way.