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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuances and depths of scriptural texts. The Greek word καθαρός (katharos) holds particular significance because it often refers to purity, both in a physical and moral sense. This word appears frequently in the New Testament, indicating not just physical cleanliness but also spiritual and ethical purity, making it a critical term for interpreting Biblical teachings and understanding ancient Greek culture.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: καθαρός (katharos), pronounced [ka-tha-ROS].
- Etymology: Derived from the root word καθαίρω (kathairō), meaning “to cleanse” or “purify.”
- Part of Speech: Adjective; follows the first and second declension in Greek grammar.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Clean: Refers to something that is physically clean, without dirt or blemish.
- Pure: In a spiritual or moral sense, indicating purity of heart or actions.
- Innocent: Describes someone who is free from guilt or sin.
- Unadulterated: Something that is genuine and without mixture or contamination.
Similar Words: ἁγνός (hagnos) [ha-GNOS] – meaning “chaste” or “pure,” often used in a more specific context referring to ritualistic or ceremonial purity. While καθαρός can describe a broader range of purity, including moral and spiritual, ἁγνός is more focused on ceremonial or ethical purity.
Further Insights: The word καθαρός has a variety of uses in both the Old and New Testaments, often associated with ritualistic cleansing, moral uprightness, or spiritual purity. In its grammatical usage, καθαρός is an adjective and can follow the first and second declensions, depending on its use in masculine, feminine, or neuter forms. Below is a declension chart for καθαρός:
| Case | Masculine | Feminine | Neuter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nominative | καθαρός | καθαρά | καθαρόν |
| Genitive | καθαροῦ | καθαρᾶς | καθαροῦ |
| Dative | καθαρῷ | καθαρᾷ | καθαρῷ |
| Accusative | καθαρόν | καθαράν | καθαρόν |
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines καθαρός as “clean” in a physical sense, but also in moral and ritual contexts, describing something free from pollution or sin.
- Thayers: Highlights its dual application in both the Old and New Testaments, referring to physical cleanliness and spiritual purity.
- Vines: Notes the transition of καθαρός from its literal sense to a more figurative one, representing moral purity and spiritual integrity.
- LSJ: Describes it as “pure,” “clean,” or “clear,” with various applications in both classical and biblical texts.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καθαρός as “clean,” “pure,” or “clear,” with multiple occurrences in New Testament scripture, emphasizing purity in various contexts.
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Related Scripture References
- Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure [καθαροί] in heart, for they shall see God.”
- John 15:3 – “You are already clean [καθαροί] because of the word which I have spoken to you.”
- 1 Timothy 1:5 – “But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure [καθαρᾶς] heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.”
Classical Usage
καθαρός is frequently used in classical Greek literature to denote purity, both physical and moral.
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “The καθαρός (pure) form of the soul is freed from its bodily impurities.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “Virtue is a mean state between excess and deficiency, where one’s character is καθαρός (pure).” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The river was considered καθαρός (clean) by the local people and used for their purification rituals.” |
Summary of καθαρός (G2513: katharos)
The word καθαρός (katharos) is pivotal in understanding Biblical references to purity, whether in a physical, spiritual, or moral sense. It frequently appears in New Testament teachings to describe not just outward cleanliness but a state of internal purity necessary for communion with God. The term also has rich classical usage, demonstrating its significance in ancient Greek culture and philosophy.
Did You Know?
- καθαρός is the root of the English word “catharsis,” meaning emotional purification or cleansing.
- The concept of καθαρός in Hellenistic philosophy often intersected with ethical living and the pursuit of moral excellence.
- In modern Greek, καθαρός still means “clean” or “pure,” showing the continuity of its usage from ancient to contemporary times.
Understanding καθαρός provides a deeper appreciation for the Biblical calls to purity and holiness, reflecting the intertwining of cultural, ritualistic, and spiritual dimensions in early Christian teachings.
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