from κατά and ὅς; according to which thing, i.e. precisely as, in proportion as:--according to that, (inasmuch) as.
Transliteration:kathó
Pronunciation:kath-o'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma καθό (kathó, `{{G2526}}`) is a compound word, formed from the preposition κατά (katá, `{{G2596}}`) and the relative pronoun ὅς (hos, `{{G3739}}`). Κατά typically denotes "down from," "against," or "according to," while ὅς means "who," "which," or "what." The combination καθό thus signifies "according to which," "inasmuch as," "precisely as," or "in proportion as." It conveys a sense of correspondence, conformity, or proportionality, indicating that one action or state is measured or determined by another. It implies a standard, a measure, or a condition that governs or defines something else.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not extensively used in the New Testament, καθό appears in contexts that reveal its precise meaning and theological weight.
* In [[Romans 8:26]], the Spirit intercedes for believers, "for we do not know καθό (what) to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words." Here, καθό highlights the specific nature or extent of human ignorance regarding prayer, emphasizing the Spirit's perfect alignment with divine will in intercession.
* In [[2 Corinthians 8:12]], Paul articulates a principle of giving: "For if the eagerness is present, it is acceptable καθό (according to what) a person has, not καθό (according to what) he does not have." This usage underscores the proportionality of giving, affirming that generosity is measured by one's ability and resources, not by an unattainable standard.
* In [[Hebrews 5:4]], speaking of the high priesthood, the text states, "And no one takes the honor to himself, but only when called by God, just καθό (as) Aaron also was." Here, καθό establishes a direct and precise parallel, emphasizing that the legitimacy of the priesthood, whether Aaron's or Christ's, stems solely from divine appointment, not human initiative.
Across these occurrences, καθό consistently introduces a clause that defines the manner, degree, or condition under which the main clause operates, underscoring precision and correspondence.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **κατά (katá, `{{G2596}}`):** The foundational preposition contributing the sense of "according to" or "in proportion to."
* **ὅς (hos, `{{G3739}}`):** The relative pronoun, providing the "which" or "as" component, linking to a preceding or implied antecedent.
* **καθότι (kathóti, `{{G2530}}`):** A closely related adverbial conjunction, meaning "inasmuch as," "because," or "according as." It often carries a stronger causal nuance.
* **καθώς (kathōs, `{{G2531}}`):** Another related adverbial conjunction, meaning "just as," "even as," or "according as." It frequently emphasizes similarity or correspondence.
* **οὕτως (houtōs, `{{G3779}}`):** "Thus," "so," "in this way," often used to draw a comparison or consequence, aligning with the proportional aspect of καθό.
* The concept of divine measure (e.g., μέτρον, `{{G3358}}`), stewardship, and responsibility according to one's capacity or calling is often conveyed or implied where καθό is used, highlighting God's ordered and just economy.
### Theological Significance
The precise nature of καθό underscores the divine order and the principle of stewardship within the New Testament. God's expectations and provisions are frequently "according to" specific measures or conditions. In the context of prayer ([[Romans 8:26]]), it highlights human limitation and the Spirit's perfect intercession, which precisely addresses our need *as* we are unable to articulate it, emphasizing divine grace filling human deficiency. Regarding giving ([[2 Corinthians 8:12]]), καθό establishes a theological principle of equity and responsibility, teaching that giving is not burdensome but proportional to what one possesses, reflecting God's understanding of human capacity and His desire for cheerful, willing contributions. In the context of ministry and authority ([[Hebrews 5:4]]), καθό emphasizes the divine origin of calling; true authority is not self-appointed but comes *as* a direct divine appointment, mirroring the pattern established by God Himself. This grounds legitimacy in God's sovereign choice. The word subtly reinforces the concept of divine economy, where everything is ordered and measured by God's wisdom and purpose, speaking to a universe governed by divine standards and principles where actions and outcomes are often contingent upon or commensurate with specific conditions.
### Summary
The Greek word καθό (kathó, `{{G2526}}`) is a compound adverbial conjunction meaning "according to which," "inasmuch as," or "precisely as." Derived from κατά (katá, `{{G2596}}`) and ὅς (hos, `{{G3739}}`), it signifies a precise correspondence, proportionality, or condition. Its usage in the New Testament consistently defines the manner, degree, or basis of an action or state. Theologically, καθό highlights divine principles of measure, stewardship, and legitimate calling, emphasizing that God's work and human responsibility operate within divinely appointed parameters. It underscores the precision of God's dealings and the importance of acting in accordance with His established will and provisions, whether in prayer, giving, or ministry.
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