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Unveiling the Word

In the study of Biblical Greek, understanding specific words can profoundly impact the interpretation of scriptures. The Greek word κατισχύω (katischyō) is particularly significant due to its strong connotations of overcoming, prevailing, and mastering. Its usage in the New Testament often relates to spiritual strength, victory over obstacles, and the triumph of divine power. Understanding κατισχύω provides deeper insight into ancient Greek culture and helps elucidate the theological themes present in Biblical texts, where the term symbolizes resilience and spiritual fortitude.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κατισχύω (katischyō), pronounced [ka-tees-KHEE-o].

Etymology: The word κατισχύω is formed from the prefix κατά (kata), meaning “down,” “against,” or “through,” combined with ἰσχύω (ischyō), meaning “to be strong” or “to prevail.” Together, the word carries the idea of “overpowering” or “gaining mastery over” something.

Part of Speech: Verb. κατισχύω is a verb used to denote action, specifically the action of overcoming or prevailing against opposition. It can appear in various grammatical forms, including different tenses, voices, and moods, which add nuance to its meaning in context.

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Defining Meanings

To Overcome or Prevail: The primary meaning of κατισχύω is “to overcome” or “to prevail.” It implies achieving victory or gaining the upper hand in a struggle, whether physical, spiritual, or moral.

To Be Strong Against: Another meaning of κατισχύω focuses on the idea of being strong or resolute against challenges or opposition. This sense is often used metaphorically to describe moral or spiritual fortitude.

To Master or Subdue: In some contexts, κατισχύω also carries the sense of mastering or subduing an opponent or obstacle. It emphasizes the complete domination or control over a situation.

Exploring Similar Words

νικάω (nikaō) [nee-KAH-oh]: Meaning “to conquer” or “to be victorious,” this word is similar in that it denotes victory. However, νικάω is often used more generally, whereas κατισχύω emphasizes overcoming resistance.

κρατέω (krateō) [kra-TEH-oh]: This word means “to take hold of” or “to seize.” It shares a connotation of strength but focuses more on the act of seizing or grasping power rather than the process of prevailing.

ὑπερνικάω (hypernikaō) [hy-per-nee-KAH-oh]: Translated as “to overwhelmingly conquer,” this term is used to describe an extraordinary victory that surpasses normal conquest, differing from κατισχύω, which emphasizes prevailing against direct opposition.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: κατισχύω appears in various tenses in the New Testament, including the present and aorist tenses, often in the active voice and indicative mood. This usage indicates a continuous or completed action of overcoming or prevailing.

Person and Number: The verb κατισχύω is conjugated to reflect different persons and numbers. For example:

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

Studying Lexicon Insights

κατισχύω is frequently used in both New Testament and classical Greek literature to depict themes of overcoming and prevailing. In the New Testament, the term often illustrates spiritual victory, such as in Matthew 16:18, where Jesus says, “the gates of Hades shall not prevail [κατισχύσουσιν] against it,” highlighting the indestructibility of the church. In classical contexts, κατισχύω might also refer to physical or military conquest. Theologically, the word underscores themes of divine strength and perseverance, reinforcing the idea that spiritual battles require divine empowerment to achieve victory.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 16:18: “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not prevail [κατισχύσουσιν] against it.”

Luke 23:23: “But they were insistent, with loud voices asking that He be crucified. And their voices began to prevail [κατίσχυσαν].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

κατισχύω (katischyō) is a dynamic Greek verb meaning “to prevail,” “to overcome,” or “to master.” It is primarily used to convey the idea of gaining victory or demonstrating strength against opposition. In Biblical contexts, it underscores the power of God and His followers to resist evil and endure trials. The word also has rich usage in classical Greek literature, where it is employed to describe both physical and moral victories. Understanding κατισχύω enhances our grasp of the resilience and strength needed for spiritual battles, as emphasized in the New Testament.

Did You Know?

• κατισχύω is used in one of Jesus’ most famous declarations about the Church in Matthew 16:18.
• The word reflects both divine strength and human determination to endure and conquer challenges.
• κατισχύω is related to other Greek words that emphasize strength, such as ἰσχύς (ischys), meaning “strength” or “might.”