### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epikatáratos**, represented by `{{G1944}}`, defines that which is **accursed** or execrable. It is derived from ἐπί and a derivative of καταράομαι. Appearing only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, its usage is rare but theologically significant, denoting a state of being under an imprecation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Galatians, `{{G1944}}` is used to explain the condition of those under the law. Anyone who does not **continue** in all things written in the book of the **law** to do them is described as **accursed** [[Galatians 3:10]]. This concept is pivotal in understanding the work of **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, who **redeemed** us from this curse by being made a curse for us. The scripture states, "**Cursed** is every one that hangeth on a tree" [[Galatians 3:13]]. A different use appears in the Gospel of John, where religious leaders refer to the crowd that does not **know** the law as **accursed** [[John 7:49]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the meaning of `{{G1944}}`:
* `{{G2671}}` **katára** (curse): Defined as an "imprecation, execration," this word is used in direct connection with `{{G1944}}`. In Galatians, Christ redeems us from the **curse** of the law by being made a **curse** [[Galatians 3:13]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This term for "law" or "regulation" appears in all three verses where `{{G1944}}` is found. Being **accursed** is presented as a direct consequence of one's relationship to the **law** [[Galatians 3:10]].
* `{{G1805}}` **exagorázō** (redeem): This word means to "buy up, i.e. ransom" and represents the solution to being accursed. **Christ** `{{G5547}}` is said to have **redeemed** believers from the curse of the law [[Galatians 3:13]].
* `{{G1696}}` **emménō** (continue): Meaning to "persevere," this verb highlights the impossible condition for avoiding the law's curse, which requires one to **continue** in all its commands [[Galatians 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1944}}` is profound, centering on the concepts of law, judgment, and redemption.
* **The Universal Curse of the Law:** The term establishes that anyone who relies on the works of the **law** `{{G3551}}` is under a **curse** `{{G2671}}`, because perfect and constant obedience is required. The failure to **continue** `{{G1696}}` in every point of the law results in being **accursed** [[Galatians 3:10]].
* **Christ as the Curse-Bearer:** The most crucial theological point is that **Christ** `{{G5547}}` became **accursed** `{{G1944}}` in the place of believers. By **hanging** `{{G2910}}` on a tree, he fulfilled the pronouncement of the curse, thereby **redeeming** `{{G1805}}` us from it [[Galatians 3:13]].
* **Human versus Divine Judgment:** In John, the word is used by religious authorities to condemn those they see as ignorant of the **law** [[John 7:49]]. This contrasts their legalistic condemnation with the divine remedy for the curse provided through Christ.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1944}}` is a potent term that signifies being execrable or **accursed**. It is fundamentally tied to the **law** `{{G3551}}`, declaring that all who fail to perfectly uphold it are under its **curse** `{{G2671}}`. The word's ultimate significance lies in its application to **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, who took on the status of being **accursed** to **redeem** humanity, transforming a state of condemnation into one of salvation.
TRV