καταβάλλω

I cast, lay down

Definition

The verb καταβάλλω (kataballō) carries two primary meanings in the New Testament. Its literal sense is 'to lay down' or 'to found,' as in laying a foundation for a building, which is its meaning in Hebrews 6:1 where the author speaks of not 'laying again' the foundation of basic Christian teachings. The second, metaphorical sense is 'to cast down' or 'to overthrow,' describing a forceful defeat or humiliation. This is seen in 2 Corinthians 4:9, where Paul says believers are 'persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down (kataballō), but not destroyed,' and in Revelation 12:10, where Satan is described as the 'accuser of our brethren... who was cast down (kataballō).'

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context that highlights its two meanings. In Hebrews 6:1, it is used in a positive, constructive sense regarding foundational doctrine. In 2 Corinthians 4:9, it is used metaphorically for being physically or spiritually knocked down but not ultimately defeated. In Revelation 12:10, it describes the decisive, cosmic defeat of Satan, being cast down from heaven. It appears in epistolary (2 Corinthians, Hebrews) and apocalyptic (Revelation) literature.

Etymology

The word is a compound verb formed from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' and the common verb βάλλω (ballō), meaning 'to throw' or 'to cast.' Its literal meaning is therefore 'to throw down.' This root meaning branches into the specific applications seen in the New Testament: the constructive 'laying down' of a foundation and the destructive 'casting down' of an enemy.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it illustrates both the establishment of Christian truth and the defeat of spiritual opposition. In Hebrews 6:1, it points to the essential, non-negotiable doctrines upon which faith is built. In its other uses, it powerfully conveys the reality of suffering and spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 4:9), while also affirming the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over evil (Revelation 12:10). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by connecting the foundational work of discipleship with the cosmic conflict in which believers are engaged.

In the ancient world, the act of 'laying a foundation' (the literal sense) was a significant, public event marking the start of a major building project, symbolizing permanence and intention. The metaphorical sense of 'casting down' an enemy would evoke images of military conquest or a wrestler throwing an opponent to the ground, conveying total defeat and loss of status.

βάλλω (ballō, G906) — The root verb, a more general term for 'to throw' or 'cast.' θεμελιόω (themelioō, G2311) — Specifically means 'to lay a foundation,' often used more technically for construction. καθαιρέω (kathaireō, G2507) — Means 'to take down, destroy, overthrow'; a stronger synonym for the 'cast down' sense, often implying demolition.

Word Details

Scripture References