G2708

Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential for interpreting the New Testament accurately and gaining a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical context of the text. The Greek word καταχέω (katacheō), meaning “to pour out” or “to shed,” is particularly significant because it appears in contexts involving abundance, sacrifice, and sometimes destruction. This word provides a vivid imagery that can enrich our understanding of New Testament passages, as well as offering insight into ancient Greek culture where such actions carried both ritualistic and symbolic meanings.

Key Information

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The Greek word is καταχέω (katacheō), pronounced [ka-ta-KHEH-o].

The etymology of καταχέω comes from two root words: κατά (kata), meaning “down” or “against,” and χέω (cheō), which means “to pour.” Together, they convey the idea of pouring down or pouring out in a forceful or abundant manner.

καταχέω is a verb. It follows standard Greek conjugation patterns and can appear in different tenses, voices, and moods, such as the indicative (statement of fact), subjunctive (potential or desired action), and imperative (command).

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Primary Meanings

To Pour Out: The primary meaning of καταχέω is “to pour out,” which is often used to describe the act of pouring out liquid, such as water, wine, or blood, in a generous or abundant manner.

To Shed: Another common meaning is “to shed,” especially in the context of shedding blood. This usage appears in contexts related to sacrifice, violence, or destruction, emphasizing the act of pouring out in a significant or impactful way.

To Spill Over: The term can also mean “to spill over,” suggesting a sense of overflow or being poured out beyond what is contained or controlled.

Similar Words

χέω (cheō) [KHEH-o]: This word means “to pour” without the directional or intensive force implied by καταχέω. It focuses on the action of pouring itself rather than the manner or direction.

ἐκχέω (ekcheō) [ek-KHEH-o]: Meaning “to pour out” or “to gush out,” this word emphasizes the pouring out or spilling of something in a more uncontrolled or excessive manner, often associated with liquids or substances being violently expelled.

ἀναχέω (anacheō) [a-na-KHEH-o]: This word means “to pour back” or “to return by pouring.” Unlike καταχέω, which emphasizes a downward or outward pouring, ἀναχέω suggests a reversal or redirection of the pouring action.

Morphological Features

Tense, Voice, Mood: As a verb, καταχέω can be found in various tenses like the present (indicating continuous or habitual action), aorist (indicating a singular, completed action), and perfect (indicating a completed action with ongoing relevance). It appears in the active and passive voices and can be used in various moods like the indicative (stating facts), subjunctive (expressing potential or wishes), and imperative (issuing commands).

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

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

Aspect: The present tense carries an imperfective aspect, indicating an ongoing or repeated action, while the aorist tense carries a perfective aspect, indicating a completed action.

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

Lexicon Insights

καταχέω is a versatile verb that conveys the idea of pouring out, shedding, or spilling over, both in literal and metaphorical senses. In the New Testament, this word is often used in contexts involving the pouring out of liquids, such as wine or blood, which can signify abundance, sacrifice, or judgment. Classical Greek texts also use καταχέω to describe actions ranging from ritual libations to military destruction, where something is metaphorically “poured out” in the form of blood or devastation. The theological implications are significant, especially when discussing the shedding of blood or the outpouring of God’s spirit or wrath, resonating with themes of sacrifice, judgment, and divine provision.

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

Related Scripture References

Acts 2:17: “‘And it shall be in the last days,’ God says, ‘That I will pour forth (καταχέω) of My Spirit on all mankind; And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, And your young men shall see visions, And your old men shall dream dreams.’”

Matthew 26:28: “For this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out (καταχέω) for many for forgiveness of sins.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταχέω (G2708)

καταχέω (katacheō) is a Greek verb that means “to pour out,” “to shed,” or “to spill over.” It is used in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature to convey actions involving the pouring or shedding of substances, often with significant spiritual, ritualistic, or symbolic implications. Understanding this word provides a richer context for interpreting biblical passages related to sacrifice, divine outpouring, and abundance, and it enhances our appreciation of ancient Greek practices and worldview.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek rituals, καταχέω was often used to describe the act of pouring out libations to the gods, a common religious practice to honor deities and seek their favor.

The word καταχέω is used in the New Testament to illustrate the concept of God’s Spirit being “poured out” on believers, symbolizing spiritual abundance and divine blessing.

In Homeric texts, the use of καταχέω often appears in contexts of both honor and destruction, demonstrating its flexibility in conveying both positive and negative connotations in ancient Greek culture.