καθάπτω (kathaptō)
kathaptō
to attach
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb kathaptō means to fasten something onto a surface or to seize hold of it physically. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Acts 28:3, where Paul is bitten by a viper. The text describes the snake attaching itself to his hand, using a term that conveys a firm, physical grip rather than a casual touch.
Its meaning ranges from simply putting an object on something to attacking or laying hold of with force. In this specific instance, the word highlights the sudden and hostile nature of the encounter. The snake does not merely land near Paul; it fastens itself to him, creating a moment of immediate danger that Paul calmly brushes off.
This single usage provides a concrete example of how Greek verbs can distinguish between different types of contact. While other words might describe general touching or holding, kathaptō emphasizes the act of securing or attaching, making it an effective choice for describing the viper’s tenacious bite.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kathaptō describes a firm, physical attachment, like a hook catching or a snake fastening its grip. In Acts 28:3, this term captures the sudden and hostile nature of a viper biting Paul’s hand. It is not a casual touch but a secure hold that demands immediate attention.
For your faith, this word reminds us that even in moments of sudden danger or unexpected pain, God remains present. Paul did not panic; he calmly brushed off the snake, trusting in God’s protection. This shows that our peace does not depend on avoiding trouble but on resting in God’s care during it.
When life feels like it has latched onto you with fear or anxiety, remember that no grip is stronger than God’s love. You are held by Him, and He holds you through every storm. Trust that He will bring you through safely, just as He did for Paul on Malta.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fastened1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- καθῆψεν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 28:3
But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand.
The word kathaptō emphasizes the viper's tenacious grip on Paul’s hand, highlighting the suddenness and physical reality of the danger he faced.