καταπίνω

I swallow, devour, destroy

Definition

The verb καταπίνω means to swallow or drink down, often with a sense of complete consumption or destruction. In its literal sense, it describes the physical act of swallowing, as when the earth swallowed up Korah's rebellion (Hebrews 11:29) or the dragon's flood is swallowed by the earth (Revelation 12:16). Figuratively, it conveys being overwhelmed or consumed by something, such as mortal life being 'swallowed up' by immortality (1 Corinthians 15:54) or being overwhelmed by sorrow (2 Corinthians 2:7). It can also imply devouring with hostile intent, as seen when Peter describes the devil prowling like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used seven times in the New Testament across various contexts. It appears in literal historical narratives (Hebrews 11:29, Revelation 12:16), in Jesus' hyperbolic criticism of the Pharisees' legalism (Matthew 23:24), and in profound theological discussions about the transformation of the mortal body (1 Corinthians 15:54, 2 Corinthians 5:4). It is also used for emotional overwhelm (2 Corinthians 2:7) and spiritual conflict (1 Peter 5:8). The usage shifts from concrete physical action to powerful metaphors for victory, destruction, and spiritual opposition.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' combined with the verb πίνω (pinō), meaning 'to drink.' The compound thus literally means 'to drink down,' intensifying the sense of complete ingestion or consumption. This root connection to drinking emphasizes a thorough, often irreversible, act of taking something in.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays key concepts of destruction, victory, and spiritual conflict. In 1 Corinthians 15:54, it describes the ultimate victory over death, where mortality is 'swallowed up' by life—a central hope of the Christian faith. In 1 Peter 5:8, it characterizes the devil's predatory intent, underscoring the reality of spiritual warfare. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the completeness of God's victory and the serious nature of spiritual opposition.

In the ancient world, the imagery of being swallowed—by the earth, sea, or a monster—was a powerful symbol of utter and often sudden destruction, as seen in the story of Korah (Numbers 16). This cultural resonance makes the metaphorical uses in the New Testament particularly forceful, conveying a sense of total consumption or irreversible defeat that contemporary readers might miss.

κατεσθίω (katesthiō, G2719) — emphasizes eating/consuming, often with destruction; more commonly used for literal eating or devouring. φάγω (phagō, G5315) — a general term for eating. πίνω (pinō, G4095) — the simple root meaning 'to drink,' without the intensive 'down' prefix.

Word Details

Scripture References