### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katharótēs**, represented by `{{G2514}}`, means **purification** or ceremonial cleanness. It is an exceptionally rare term in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular focus is on the concept of ritual cleansing as it relates to the old covenant sacrificial system.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2514}}` is found in [[Hebrews 9:13]], where it describes the effects of Old Testament rituals. The verse explains that if the **blood** of bulls and goats and the **ashes** of a heifer, when sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean, could sanctify for the **purifying** of the flesh, it points to a greater reality. This context establishes `{{G2514}}` as a term for external, physical cleansing under the law.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the concept of ceremonial purity and its opposite:
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy): This word is used in direct connection with purification, as ceremonial acts **sanctify** for the purifying of the flesh [[Hebrews 9:13]]. It also has a broader meaning of being made holy through God's truth [[John 17:17]] and Spirit [[1 Corinthians 6:11]].
* `{{G2840}}` **koinóō** (to defile): This term provides the contrast to purification, meaning to make something profane or common. It is used to explain that what comes out of the heart is what truly can **defile** a person, not external things [[Mark 7:20]].
* `{{G4472}}` **rhantízō** (to sprinkle): This is the action by which purification was often applied. The law required Moses to **sprinkle** the book and the people with blood [[Hebrews 9:19]], and the ashes of a heifer were used for **sprinkling** the unclean [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2514}}` comes from its specific and limited application, which highlights a larger truth.
* **External vs. Internal Purity:** The use of `{{G2514}}` is explicitly tied to the "purifying of the flesh" [[Hebrews 9:13]]. This sets up a deliberate contrast with the internal purity that comes from a cleansed conscience [[Hebrews 10:22]] and heart.
* **The Shadow of the Law:** The ritual involving the **blood** `{{G129}}` of **bulls** `{{G5022}}` and **goats** `{{G5131}}` and the **ashes** `{{G4700}}` of a **heifer** `{{G1151}}` was a temporary, physical solution. These sacrifices themselves could not take away sins [[Hebrews 10:4]] but served as a foreshadowing of a more perfect purification.
* **Sanctification's Source:** The process of **purifying** was a step toward being **sanctified** `{{G37}}`. While the Old Covenant rites provided a form of this, true sanctification comes from God, through faith in Christ [[Acts 26:18]] and the washing by the word [[Ephesians 5:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2514}}` **katharótēs** is a highly specific term whose importance lies in its rarity. Its single appearance in scripture serves to define the nature and limits of Old Covenant ceremonial cleansing. By being explicitly linked to the "purifying of the flesh," it serves as a crucial point of contrast to the deeper, spiritual cleansing and true sanctification offered through the blood of Christ.
TRV