κατασείω (kataseiō)

kataseiō

to signal

G2678 · Greek · New Testament · 4 verses

Language: Koine Greek
Testament: New Testament
Occurrences: 4 verses
Root: —

Word Overview

The verb kataseiō describes a deliberate physical gesture, specifically shaking or waving the hand to signal someone. In the New Testament, it appears only four times, all within the book of Acts. Its core meaning is not merely movement but communication through motion, often used to beckon people to attention or to request silence from a crowd.

The sources highlight its use in specific narrative moments where physical action replaces speech. For instance, Paul uses this gesture when addressing the crowd in Ephesus (Acts 19:33) and later when signaling the people of Athens to listen (Acts 17:34, though some manuscripts vary, the act of waving is consistent). In Acts 21:40, he waves his hand to calm the multitude before speaking. This word captures a moment of non-verbal authority, where a simple motion commands the room’s focus.

Etymologically, it combines kata (down/through) and seio (to shake), suggesting a forceful or decisive motion. Translators often render it as "beckon" or "signal," which helps modern readers grasp that this was a common way to manage large groups in ancient public spaces without shouting. It reminds us that early Christian leaders often navigated chaotic environments with practical, immediate gestures.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When we feel overwhelmed by noise or confusion, it is easy to think that only loud voices are heard. The word kataseiō reminds us that God often uses quiet, deliberate actions to draw our attention. In Acts, Paul does not shout over the crowd; he simply raises a hand. This small gesture creates space for truth to be spoken and heard.

This word teaches us that presence matters more than volume. Whether you are leading a meeting or comforting a friend, a calm demeanor can settle chaos better than raised voices. It invites listeners to lean in rather than pull away. We learn that peace is not the absence of noise, but the presence of focused attention on what truly matters.

May you find strength in these quiet moments of connection. Let your actions signal care and invite others into a space where they feel safe to listen and be heard.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.

made a sign1×
having motioned with1×
having made a sign1×
Having made a sign1×

Forms in the text

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

κατασείσας3×
κατέσεισεν1×

Key Verses

Acts 12:17
But he, beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. He said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place.

Paul uses this gesture immediately after his miraculous release to command silence before delivering a specific message, showing how physical calm precedes spiritual communication.
Acts 21:40
When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, beckoned with his hand to the people. When there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying,

This verse highlights the effectiveness of the signal, as a 'great silence' falls over the crowd, allowing Paul to speak in his native language and connect deeply with his audience.
Acts 13:16
Paul stood up, and gesturing with his hand said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen.

Here the gesture serves as a formal invitation for attention, marking the transition from casual gathering to serious teaching in the synagogue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does kataseiō mean in the Bible?

It means to signal or beckon by shaking or waving the hand. In the New Testament, it describes a deliberate physical gesture used to gain attention or request silence from a crowd.

How is kataseiō different from other words for calling?

While other words might mean shouting or verbally inviting, kataseiō specifically refers to a non-verbal hand gesture. It emphasizes physical presence and calm authority over loud vocalization.

Where does this word appear in the New Testament?

It appears only four times, all in the book of Acts. These instances involve Paul or others using the gesture to manage crowds before speaking important messages.

Every Occurrence (4 verses across 1 books)

Acts 4 verses

Acts 12:17

But he, beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison.…

Acts 13:16

Paul stood up, and gesturing with his hand said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God, listen.

Acts 19:33

They brought Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. Alexander beckoned with his hand, and would…

Acts 21:40

When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, beckoned with his hand to the people. When there was a…