G2702

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for unlocking deeper meanings within the New Testament. The Greek word καταφέρω (katapherō), which translates as “to bring down” or “to cast down,” is particularly significant for its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. This word provides insight into the actions, emotions, and theological concepts depicted in the New Testament. Exploring the meaning and usage of καταφέρω helps scholars and readers understand ancient Greek culture and the nuances of New Testament writings.

Key Information

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The Greek word is καταφέρω (katapherō), pronounced [ka-ta-FEH-ro].

The etymology of καταφέρω comes from two root words: κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and φέρω (pherō), meaning “to bear” or “to carry.” Combined, they convey the sense of bringing or carrying something downward, either physically or metaphorically.

καταφέρω is a verb. It follows regular conjugation patterns in Greek, varying with tense, voice, and mood. The verb can appear in the indicative, subjunctive, and imperative moods, among others.

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Primary Meanings

To Bring Down: The most straightforward meaning of καταφέρω is “to bring down,” which can refer to physically lowering or moving an object from a higher to a lower place.

To Cast Down: Another common meaning is “to cast down,” which often implies force or sudden action. This usage can be seen in contexts where something is thrown or pushed downwards.

To Overwhelm: In a figurative sense, καταφέρω can mean “to overwhelm” or “to overpower.” This usage is more abstract and can describe emotional, psychological, or spiritual states where one is metaphorically “brought down” by a force or burden.

Similar Words

φέρω (pherō) [FEH-ro]: This word means “to bear” or “to carry,” focusing on the action of carrying or bearing a burden rather than the directional aspect implied by καταφέρω.

καταβαίνω (katabainō) [ka-ta-BEH-no]: Meaning “to go down” or “to descend,” this word differs from καταφέρω as it focuses on the action of descending rather than bringing or casting something down.

καταβάλλω (kataballō) [ka-ta-BAL-lo]: This word means “to throw down” or “to strike down.” While similar to καταφέρω in its downward motion, καταβάλλω emphasizes a more aggressive action, often used in battle or conflict contexts.

Morphological Features

Tense, Voice, Mood: As a verb, καταφέρω can be found in various tenses (present, aorist, perfect, etc.), voices (active, middle, passive), and moods (indicative, subjunctive, imperative).

Person and Number: καταφέρω is conjugated across three persons (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and two numbers (singular, plural).

Conjugation Table: Below is a conjugation table for καταφέρω in the Present Indicative Active:

Aspect: The imperfective aspect in the present tense indicates a continuous or habitual action, while the aorist tense often conveys a completed or singular action in the past.

For a more detailed explanation of Greek grammar and conjugations, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

καταφέρω is a versatile verb that conveys the idea of bringing or casting down both literally and metaphorically. In New Testament contexts, the term can describe actions like bringing someone to judgment or casting down an argument. It can also imply emotional or spiritual overwhelm. In classical Greek literature, καταφέρω frequently appears in contexts involving physical movement downward, such as lowering objects or descending into valleys. Theological implications arise when considering the word’s use to describe divine or human actions that bring about humility or judgment, reinforcing themes of submission, judgment, and divine power.

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

Related Scripture References

Acts 27:27: “But when the fourteenth night came, as we were being driven about in the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors began to surmise that they were approaching some land.” (Here, καταφέρω is translated in the context of being “driven” by the wind toward the land.)

Classical Usage

Summary of καταφέρω (G2702)

καταφέρω (katapherō) is a Greek verb that means “to bring down” or “to cast down,” used in both literal and metaphorical contexts in the New Testament and classical Greek literature. It highlights themes of humility, judgment, and overwhelming force or emotion. Understanding its usage and conjugation is essential for interpreting New Testament passages where physical or spiritual movements are involved. This word’s nuanced meanings provide rich insights into both the language and the theological themes of the era.

Did You Know?

καταφέρω can describe both physical actions (like lowering objects) and emotional states (like being overwhelmed).

In ancient Greek battles, καταφέρω was often used to describe the action of bringing down enemies or obstacles.

The root word φέρω is related to English words like “ferry,” emphasizing the idea of carrying or bearing something.