καταδικάζω

I condemn

Definition

The verb καταδικάζω means to condemn, pass judgment against, or pronounce a guilty verdict. It carries a strong legal sense of delivering a formal sentence, often implying a negative judgment with consequences. In Matthew 12:7, Jesus uses it to critique the Pharisees for condemning the guiltless, highlighting a misuse of judgment. In James 5:6, it describes the unjust condemnation and murder of the righteous by the wealthy, showing its use for severe, oppressive legal action. The word always implies an authoritative, decisive act of judgment.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used four times in the New Testament, always in contexts concerning judgment and condemnation. It appears in Jesus' teaching against hypocritical judgment (Matthew 12:7, 37; Luke 6:37) and in James' condemnation of social injustice (James 5:6). The pattern shows it is used for the act of pronouncing a guilty sentence, whether in a legal setting or in interpersonal criticism. In Luke 6:37, Jesus directly links not condemning (μὴ καταδικάζετε) with not being condemned.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' and the root related to δίκη (dikē), meaning 'justice' or 'judgment.' The compound thus means 'to judge against,' intensifying the sense of a verdict being passed down upon someone. It is a stronger, more formal term than simple criticism.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly addresses the human tendency to judge others, a major theme in Jesus' teaching. Understanding καταδικάζω enriches reading by highlighting that Jesus forbids his followers from acting as final judges who pronounce condemning sentences (Luke 6:37), a role reserved for God. It contrasts human, often flawed, condemnation with God's perfect justice, underscoring the grace offered to believers who are called to be merciful.

In its original setting, this was a formal legal term from the Greco-Roman world for delivering a judicial sentence. Its use in the New Testament often critiques the misuse of religious or social authority to condemn others, reflecting tensions between Jesus' teachings and the legalistic interpretations of the law by religious leaders. The act of condemnation had serious social and sometimes fatal consequences, as seen in James 5:6.

κρίνω (krinō, G2919) — A broader term for judging, assessing, or deciding, not always negative. κατακρίνω (katakrinō, G2632) — Very close in meaning, also meaning to condemn, but can emphasize the result or state of being condemned.

Word Details

Scripture References