καυτηριάζω (kautēriazō)
kautēriazō
to brand
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb kautēriazō means to mark by branding or burning with a hot iron. In its literal sense, it describes the physical act of cauterizing a wound to stop bleeding or prevent infection. The New Testament uses this word only once, in 1 Timothy 4:2, where Paul warns about those who have "seared" their consciences.
This usage draws on the medical practice of burning tissue to numb sensation. When applied metaphorically to the conscience, it suggests a state of insensitivity or callousness. The sources indicate that the person is no longer able to feel the sting of guilt or moral conviction, as if the nerve endings have been destroyed by repeated exposure to sin.
The word carries a sense of permanent damage. Just as a brand leaves an indelible mark on skin, a seared conscience bears the lasting evidence of hardened rebellion. It is not merely a temporary lapse in judgment but a deep-seated condition where moral awareness has been burned away.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kautēriazō describes the act of branding or cauterizing with a hot iron. In the ancient world, this was a medical practice used to seal wounds and stop bleeding. It also served as a permanent mark of ownership. When the New Testament uses it, the image is stark and serious.
In 1 Timothy 4:2, Paul warns that some people have their consciences branded with a hot iron. This suggests a deep numbness where moral sensitivity has been burned away. It is not just a mistake or a moment of weakness. It describes a heart that has become callous to truth over time.
This word reminds us to guard our inner life with care. We are invited to keep our hearts soft and responsive to God’s voice. Regular reflection on Scripture helps maintain that sensitivity. May we walk in a way that keeps our consciences clear and awake.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- seared1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κεκαυστηριασμένων1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 4:2
through the hypocrisy of men who speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron,
This verse uses the word to describe how repeated falsehoods can permanently numb a person's moral sensitivity.