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καταμανθάνω (katamanthanō)

katamanthanō

to consider

G2648 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The verb katamanthano means to learn thoroughly or observe with careful attention. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Matthew 6:28, where Jesus uses it to describe how one should study nature. He asks his listeners to consider the lilies of the field, implying a deliberate and attentive observation rather than a passing glance.

Its structure combines the intensive prefix kata with manthano, meaning "to learn." This combination suggests a deepening of understanding that goes beyond simple acquisition. The sources note this distinguishes it from the base verb by emphasizing thoroughness. Jesus uses this specific term to invite his audience into a reflective state, encouraging them to perceive the care God provides in creation through sustained attention.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word kata-manthano invites us to look at life with a different kind of attention. It is not about a quick glance or a passing thought. Instead, it calls for a deliberate and careful observation that leads to deeper understanding. When Jesus uses this term, He asks us to study the lilies of the field with focused intent.

This practice can bring peace when anxiety tries to take hold. By noticing how God cares for even the smallest flowers, we see a pattern of provision that extends to our own lives. It is an invitation to shift our gaze from our worries to the faithful Creator who sustains them. This attentive looking helps us rest in the reality that we are known and cared for.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • do observe1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • καταμάθετε1×

Key Verses

  • Matthew 6:28
    Why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They don’t toil, neither do they spin,

    Jesus uses this intensive verb to command a deliberate study of nature, contrasting careful observation with anxious worry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word kata-manthano mean?

It means to learn thoroughly or to observe with careful, intensive attention. The prefix kata adds a sense of depth, suggesting that the learning is not superficial but goes down into the details.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the New Testament, in Matthew 6:28. Jesus uses it when telling his followers to consider the lilies of the field.

How is it different from simply learning something?

While regular learning can be general, this word implies a focused and thorough examination. It suggests taking time to really see and understand the details of what is in front of you.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Matthew 1 verse
Matthew 6:28

Why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They don’t toil, neither do they…