κατασύρω (katasurō)
katasurō
to drag away
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb katasurō describes the physical act of dragging someone away or pulling them down with force. Its meaning is straightforward and visceral, combining a prefix that intensifies the action with a root meaning "to drag." In Scripture, it appears only once, in Luke 12:58, where Jesus uses it to illustrate the seriousness of settling disputes before going to court. The image evoked is not one of gentle persuasion but of coercive removal, emphasizing the inevitable consequences of ignoring justice.
This single occurrence highlights the word’s weight in teaching. By choosing such a stark term for being led away by an adversary, the text underscores the urgency of reconciliation. Translators typically render it as "dragged" to preserve this sense of involuntary movement and powerlessness. The word serves as a concrete metaphor for the loss of autonomy that comes from failing to resolve conflict early.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word katasurō paints a stark picture of being dragged away against one’s will. In Luke 12:58, Jesus uses this visceral image to warn us about the dangers of ignoring conflict. When we delay settling disputes, we risk losing our freedom and dignity entirely. The adversary does not ask politely; they enforce their claim with force.
This teaching invites us to value peace over pride. It is wiser to seek reconciliation early than to face the harsh consequences of legal battles later. By addressing issues promptly, we protect our relationships and our peace of mind. This approach reflects a heart that prioritizes justice and mercy over winning an argument.
May you find the courage to resolve conflicts with grace. Let your actions bring healing rather than harm. Trust in God’s wisdom to guide your steps toward peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he may drag away1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κατασύρῃ1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 12:58
For when you are going with your adversary before the magistrate, try diligently on the way to be released from him, lest perhaps he drag you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison.
The word katasurō here illustrates the urgent need to settle disputes before they escalate into legal consequences.