κατασφάζω (katasphazō)
katasphazō
to slaughter
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb katasphazō means to slaughter or kill off completely. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:27, where Jesus describes a king commanding his enemies to be brought before him and slain.
This word combines the intensive prefix kata with sphazō, which also means to slaughter. The sources note that it is used in the Septuagint for violent death, such as in Zechariah 11:5. Its rare occurrence in the New Testament highlights a stark image of judgment rather than ordinary conflict.
Translators typically render this word as "slain" or "killed." The intensity of the prefix suggests a thoroughness to the act, fitting the context of severe divine retribution described in the parable. It stands as a powerful example of how Jesus used vivid imagery to convey the seriousness of rejecting his rule.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word katasphazō appears only once in the New Testament, carrying a heavy weight of finality. In Luke 19:27, Jesus uses this vivid language to describe the consequences of rejecting His authority. It is not a word for casual disagreement but for decisive judgment against those who actively oppose God's reign.
For believers, this passage serves as a sober reminder that faith in Christ is serious business. The image of enemies being brought before the King highlights the reality that there are eternal stakes in how we respond to Jesus. It calls us to submit to His lordship with humility and reverence, recognizing that He is both Savior and Judge.
While the imagery is stark, it underscores the importance of aligning our lives with God's will. We are invited to rest in the assurance that Christ’s rule brings justice and peace for those who welcome Him. This call to submission is an invitation to find true security under His care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do slay1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κατασφάξατε1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 19:27
But bring those enemies of mine who didn’t want me to reign over them here, and kill them before me.’”
This occurrence uses the intensive form of slaughter to emphasize the severe finality of judgment against those who reject Christ's kingship.