### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kathó**, represented by `{{G2526}}`, is formed from κατά and ὅς and means **according to which thing, i.e. precisely as, in proportion as**. It is a specific term that appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It functions as a marker of comparison, establishing a standard or proportion for an action or state of being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2526}}` sets a divine standard for Christian life. It is used to describe the correct manner of prayer, explaining that we do not **know** `{{G1492}}` what to **pray for** `{{G4336}}` **as** we **ought** `{{G1163}}` [[Romans 8:26]]. In the context of suffering, it connects a believer's experience to Christ's, calling them to **rejoice** `{{G5463}}` **inasmuch as** they are **partakers** `{{G2841}}` of His **sufferings** `{{G3804}}` [[1 Peter 4:13]]. It also establishes a principle of giving, where a **willing mind** `{{G4288}}` is **accepted** `{{G2144}}` **according to** what a person **hath** `{{G2192}}`, not what they do not have [[2 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the standard and proportion indicated by `{{G2526}}`:
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (ought): This word means **it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)**. It establishes the binding standard that believers are measured against when they pray, as seen in [[Romans 8:26]].
* `{{G2841}}` **koinōnéō** (partakers): Defined as **to share with others (objectively or subjectively)**, this word describes the action of sharing in Christ's sufferings, which is the basis for rejoicing "inasmuch as" it happens [[1 Peter 4:13]].
* `{{G4288}}` **prothymía** (willing mind): Meaning **predisposition, i.e. alacrity**, this term defines the heart condition that makes one's giving acceptable to God, which is then measured "according to" one's means [[2 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2526}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of the Christian walk.
* **The Standard of God:** The word points to a perfect, divine standard that humans cannot meet on their own. We do not know how to pray **as** we **ought** `{{G1163}}`, revealing a weakness that requires divine help [[Romans 8:26]].
* **Proportionality in Faith:** It establishes a direct relationship between our experiences and spiritual outcomes. The measure of our participation in Christ's **sufferings** `{{G3804}}` is proportional to the **exceeding joy** `{{G21}}` we will have when His **glory** `{{G1391}}` is revealed [[1 Peter 4:13]].
* **Grace in Giving:** The term frames giving not as a rigid demand but as an act of the heart. A gift is deemed **accepted** `{{G2144}}` based on the giver's **willing mind** `{{G4288}}`, **according to** what one possesses, not what one lacks [[2 Corinthians 8:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2526}}` **kathó** serves as a precise indicator of proportion and conformity to a standard. It teaches that our spiritual actions—whether prayer, suffering, or giving—are measured not by human achievement but by a divine rule. It simultaneously reveals our **infirmities** `{{G769}}` and points to the provision of the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` and the grace of God, which makes our imperfect offerings **accepted** `{{G2144}}`.
TRV