### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katharós**, represented by `{{G2513}}`, serves as a foundational term for being **clean, clear, or pure**. It appears **28 times** across **24 unique verses**, signifying its importance in describing both literal and figurative states of purity. Beyond simple cleanliness, it conveys concepts of moral blamelessness, ceremonial cleanness, and unadulterated quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2513}}` is used in several key contexts. Literally, it describes the "**clean** linen cloth" used to wrap the body of Jesus [[Matthew 27:59]]. Figuratively, it is most often applied to the inner state of a person. Jesus pronounces a blessing on the "**pure** in heart," stating they will see God [[Matthew 5:8]]. The goal of Christian teaching is described as "charity out of a **pure** heart" [[1 Timothy 1:5]]. In an eschatological sense, the term describes the perfect quality of the New Jerusalem, where the street is "**pure** gold" and the river of life is "**pure**" ([[Revelation 21:21]], [[Revelation 22:1]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of purity and cleanliness:
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse): This is the verb form, signifying the action of making something pure. It is used to describe the purging of one's conscience from dead works [[Hebrews 9:14]] and cleansing from all sin [[1 John 1:7]].
* `{{G48}}` **hagnízō** (to purify): This word refers to the act of making clean, often morally or ceremonially. It is used when believers are described as having **purified** their souls in order to love one another from a **pure** `{{G2513}}` heart [[1 Peter 1:22]].
* `{{G3392}}` **miaínō** (to defile): As an antonym, this term for contamination provides a direct contrast. It is used to describe those whose minds and consciences are **defiled**, unlike the **pure** `{{G2513}}`, to whom all things are pure [[Titus 1:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2513}}` is significant, establishing a framework for understanding spiritual life.
* **The Purity of Heart:** The term places emphasis on an internal state over external ritual. Being **pure** in heart is the condition for seeing God [[Matthew 5:8]] and is the wellspring of genuine love and unfeigned faith [[1 Timothy 1:5]].
* **Divine Cleansing:** Purity is presented as a result of God's action, not just human effort. Believers are made **clean** through the word of Christ [[John 15:3]], and they draw near to God with bodies washed with **pure** water [[Hebrews 10:22]].
* **The Nature of True Religion:** The concept is a defining characteristic of authentic faith. James describes "**pure** religion" as being demonstrated through active compassion and by keeping oneself unspotted from the world's corruption [[James 1:27]].
* **Eschatological Perfection:** In Revelation, the word is used to describe the perfect and uncorrupted nature of the eternal kingdom. The clothing of the saints is **clean** linen, representing their righteousness [[Revelation 19:8]], and the very foundation of the new creation is described as **pure** [[Revelation 21:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2513}}` is far more than a simple descriptor. It is a cornerstone of biblical ethics and theology, defining the moral and spiritual state required for fellowship with God. Spanning from the literal cleanliness of an object to the absolute purity of the new heavens and new earth, **katharós** illustrates the Bible's call to a holiness that is internal, divinely granted, and ultimately perfected in eternity.
TRV