### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G2510 (καθάπτω, *katháptō*) is a compound word formed from the preposition `{{G2596}}` (κατά, *katá*) and the verb `{{G680}}` (ἅπτομαι, *háptomai*). The base verb ἅπτομαι signifies "to touch," "to grasp," or "to fasten oneself to." The prefix κατά often denotes a downward motion, completion, or intensification of the action. When combined, καθάπτω conveys a more forceful, decisive, or permanent act of seizing, attaching, or fastening *down upon* something. It implies a firm grip or a secure attachment, moving beyond a mere superficial touch to an act of aggressive or tenacious adherence. The semantic range thus centers on the idea of a firm, often unyielding, seizure or attachment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G2510 (καθάπτω) appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[Acts 28:3]]. This singular occurrence provides a rich context for understanding its precise meaning:
> "But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand."
> (ἀλλὰ συνθέντος τοῦ Παύλου φρυγάνων πλῆθος καὶ ἐπιθέντος ἐπὶ τὴν πυράν, ἔχιδνα ἀπὸ τῆς θέρμης ἐξελθοῦσα καθεῖλεν αὐτοῦ τῆς χειρός.)
In this passage, the viper is described as καθεῖλεν (the aorist form of καθάπτω) onto Paul's hand. The choice of this verb is significant. It suggests that the snake did not merely brush against Paul or lightly bite him; rather, it "fastened on" or "seized upon" his hand with a firm, tenacious grip. This emphasizes the immediate and serious nature of the threat. The action described is one of definitive attachment, conveying the danger and the miraculous nature of Paul's subsequent deliverance. The use of καθάπτω highlights the intensity of the viper's hold, making Paul's unharmed state all the more remarkable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G2510 (καθάπτω) is enhanced by considering its etymological components and related terms:
* **`{{G2596}}` (κατά, *katá*):** The preposition indicating downward motion, intensity, or completion. Its presence here strengthens the sense of "fastening *down*."
* **`{{G680}}` (ἅπτομαι, *háptomai*):** The base verb meaning "to touch," "to grasp," or "to kindle." The reflexive/middle voice often implies "to cling to" or "to attach oneself to."
* **Conceptual Synonyms:** While καθάπτω uniquely emphasizes a tenacious fastening, other Greek words convey aspects of grasping or holding:
* `{{G2983}}` (λαμβάνω, *lambanō*): To take, receive, or grasp.
* `{{G1949}}` (ἐπιλαμβάνομαι, *epilambanomai*): To take hold of, lay hold of, often with the nuance of seizing for help or support.
* `{{G2902}}` (κρατέω, *krateō*): To grasp, hold fast, or seize with power.
* `{{G2853}}` (κολλάω, *kollaō*): To glue, to join, to cleave to, implying a strong bond.
These related words help to delineate the specific nuance of καθάπτω as a decisive and firm attachment, often in a potentially harmful or challenging context.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, the theological significance of G2510 (καθάπτω) in [[Acts 28:3]] is profound. The viper's tenacious fastening upon Paul's hand serves as a dramatic illustration of God's providential protection over His servants.
1. **Divine Protection:** The incident immediately follows a shipwreck, emphasizing Paul's vulnerability and reliance on divine care. The viper's firm grip underscores the genuine and deadly nature of the threat, making Paul's immunity a clear demonstration of God's power to preserve life and ministry against all odds. This echoes promises of divine protection, such as those found in [[Mark 16:18]] where believers are promised they will "pick up serpents."
2. **Confirmation of Ministry:** For the Maltese islanders, Paul's deliverance from the snake's deadly "fastening" was a powerful sign, initially causing them to regard him as a god, then as a man favored by God. This miracle served to authenticate Paul's apostolic authority and the divine power at work through him, preparing the way for the gospel message.
3. **Spiritual Warfare Analogy:** While not explicitly stated, the physical "fastening" of the viper can serve as an analogy for spiritual attacks. Just as the snake firmly attached itself, spiritual forces of evil can seek to "fasten on" believers, aiming to harm or hinder. Paul's deliverance, however, testifies to the greater power of God to disarm such attacks and ensure the safety and progress of His kingdom's work. The word emphasizes that the threat was real and direct, yet God's power was utterly sufficient.
### Summary
G2510 (καθάπτω, *katháptō*) is a potent Greek verb, formed from `{{G2596}}` (κατά) and `{{G680}}` (ἅπτομαι), signifying a firm, decisive, and often aggressive act of "seizing upon" or "fastening on." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Acts 28:3]] vividly describes a viper tenaciously attaching itself to the Apostle Paul's hand. This singular use is highly significant, highlighting the immediate and deadly nature of the threat, thereby underscoring the miraculous divine protection afforded to Paul. Theologically, καθάπτω serves as a powerful testament to God's providential care for His servants in the face of imminent danger, confirming their ministry and demonstrating His sovereign power over hostile forces, both physical and spiritual.
TRV