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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the full depth of the original text. The word κλάω (klaō), which appears in Matthew 14:19, is a significant term that means “to break.” This word carries a profound theological and cultural significance in the New Testament, especially in the context of the breaking of bread—a practice central to early Christian worship and communal life. In ancient Greek culture, the term also reflects everyday activities like the breaking of bread during meals, underscoring themes of fellowship, sustenance, and sharing.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κλάω, transliterated as klaō [KLAH-oh].

Etymology: The word κλάω is derived from the root κλα- (kla-), meaning “to break.” The verb κλάω emphasizes the physical act of breaking, commonly associated with bread, symbolizing not just physical nourishment but also spiritual significance.

Part of Speech: Verb. The verb κλάω is a standard Greek verb used in various contexts, both literal and figurative, to describe the act of breaking or dividing something into parts. It follows regular verb conjugation patterns in Greek.

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Defining Meanings

1. To Break: The primary meaning of κλάω is “to break,” particularly referring to breaking bread, as seen in the context of meals or sacramental practices in the New Testament.
2. To Divide or Distribute: In some contexts, κλάω can imply the division of food or resources among people, highlighting themes of sharing and community.
3. Figurative Meaning: Occasionally, κλάω can take on a more symbolic meaning, referring to the breaking down of barriers or divisions, particularly in spiritual or social contexts.

Exploring Similar Words

1. καταγνύω (katagnýō) [ka-ta-GNOO-oh]: This word means “to break down” or “to shatter.” While it also implies breaking, it often conveys a sense of destruction rather than the more controlled and purposeful breaking of κλάω.
2. ῥήγνυμι (rhēgnymi) [HRAYG-noo-mee]: This verb means “to tear” or “to burst.” Unlike κλάω, which is generally gentle or purposeful, ῥήγνυμι suggests a more violent action.
3. σχίζω (schízō) [SKHEE-dzoh]: This verb means “to split” or “to divide.” It often refers to tearing or splitting apart in a way that implies separation or creating a division, rather than breaking for the purpose of sharing.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood:
κλάω is most commonly found in the Aorist tense (indicating a past action), Active voice (where the subject performs the action), and Indicative mood (stating a fact).

Person and Number:
Examples include:

• 1st Person Singular: κλάω (I break)
• 2nd Person Singular: κλάεις (You break)
• 3rd Person Singular: κλάει (He/She/It breaks)

Aspect:
The aspect of κλάω can be imperfective when it refers to ongoing or repeated actions or perfective when it indicates a completed action, such as “He broke the bread.”

Conjugation Table: Present Indicative

For more details on Greek conjugations, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κλάω is pivotal in the New Testament for describing the act of breaking bread, a term that holds both literal and metaphorical meanings. In various lexicons, κλάω is noted for its use in contexts where breaking bread symbolizes fellowship and the sharing of sustenance. The breaking of bread is also associated with the Last Supper and the Lord’s Table, underscoring themes of sacrifice, community, and remembrance. The word is employed to signify acts of blessing and thanksgiving, drawing a parallel between physical nourishment and spiritual fulfillment. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 14:19: “He ordered the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke [κλάω] the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.”
2. Acts 2:46: “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke [κλάω] bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.”
3. Luke 24:30: “When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke [κλάω] it and began to give it to them.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek verb κλάω is deeply embedded in both cultural and theological contexts within the New Testament. It represents the act of breaking bread, a symbol of sharing, fellowship, and remembrance. The term connects everyday life in ancient Greek society with the spiritual practices of early Christians, bridging mundane actions with profound spiritual meanings.

Did You Know?

1. The word κλάω is not only used in the context of eating but also in ceremonies like the Eucharist, highlighting the sacred nature of communal meals.
2. In classical literature, κλάω was often used to signify unity and peace, reflecting its role in fostering relationships and communal bonds.
3. The act of breaking bread (κλάω) is central to the Christian understanding of hospitality, as it signifies sharing both physical and spiritual nourishment.