κατασκάπτω

I dig down under, demolish

Definition

The verb κατασκάπτω means to dig down, undermine, or demolish completely. It carries the sense of destroying something from its foundation, often by digging under it to cause collapse. In Acts 15:16, it is used metaphorically in a quotation from Amos 9:11 (LXX) about the 'tent of David' that had fallen and needed rebuilding, implying it was thoroughly ruined or demolished. In Romans 11:3, Paul quotes Elijah's lament that altars to God have been 'torn down,' conveying total destruction by hostile forces.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only twice in the New Testament, both times in quotations from the Old Testament (Septuagint). In Acts 15:16, James uses it to describe the fallen state of David's dynasty, which God will restore. In Romans 11:3, Paul cites Elijah's complaint about the destruction of God's altars by Israel. Both uses are in prophetic or lament contexts, emphasizing complete ruin that requires divine intervention.

Etymology

From κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' and the verb σκάπτω (skaptō), meaning 'to dig.' Thus, it literally means 'to dig down' or 'to dig under.' The compound intensifies the action, suggesting digging so as to undermine and destroy. Cognates include σκάπτω (G4626) for basic digging.

Semantic Range

This word highlights themes of judgment and restoration. It depicts the severe consequences of turning from God—symbolic structures like altars (Romans 11:3) or dynasties (Acts 15:16) being utterly demolished. Yet, in both passages, this destruction sets the stage for God's promise of rebuilding and mercy, emphasizing hope amid ruin. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by underscoring the completeness of the downfall that precedes divine redemption.

In ancient construction, undermining was a common military tactic to collapse walls or foundations. Culturally, κατασκάπτω would evoke images of intentional, thorough destruction, not mere damage. This differs from some modern understandings of 'demolish,' which might imply quicker methods like explosives; here, it involves laborious digging to ensure total ruin.

καθαιρέω (kathaireō, G2507) — to take down, destroy, but more general, often of pulling down structures; καταλύω (katalyō, G2647) — to destroy, dissolve, or overthrow, with a focus on loosening or dismantling.

Word Details

Scripture References