### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kathṓs**, represented by `{{G2531}}`, is a comparative particle meaning **just as**, **according to**, or **inasmuch as**. Derived from the words `{{G2596}}` **katá** and `{{G5613}}` **hōs**, it functions to draw a parallel or establish a standard. It appears **183 times** across **180 unique verses**, highlighting its significance in connecting concepts, commands, and prophecies throughout Scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{G2531}}` is used to establish a basis for action or belief. It frequently introduces scriptural quotations, as in the phrase "**as** it is written" ([[Romans 3:10]], [[Romans 8:36]], [[Romans 9:33]]), affirming that current events or theological truths are rooted in established holy writings. It also sets a divine standard for believers' conduct, commanding them to act in a specific manner based on the example of God or Christ. For instance, believers are called to forgive one another "**even as** Christ forgave you" [[Colossians 3:13]] and to walk in love "**as** Christ also hath loved us" [[Ephesians 5:2]]. Furthermore, it is used to draw direct comparisons, such as linking the lifting up of the serpent in the wilderness to the crucifixion: "**as** Moses lifted up the serpent... even so must the Son of man be lifted up" [[John 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and meaning of `{{G2531}}`:
* `{{G2596}}` **katá** (according as (to), after): As one of the root words of **kathṓs**, it signifies a standard or rule. It appears in contexts defining something according to a pre-existing pattern or revelation [[Ephesians 3:3]].
* `{{G5613}}` **hōs** (as, like): The other root word of **kathṓs**, it is used to make comparisons. It often appears in parallel with **kathṓs** to draw a distinction or an analogy, such as receiving God's word not "**as** the word of men, but **as** it is in truth, the word of God" [[1 Thessalonians 2:13]].
* `{{G2532}}` **kaí** (and, also, even): This particle is frequently combined with **kathṓs** to intensify a comparison, forming the phrase "even as" or "as also." This is seen in instructions to forgive "**even as** God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" [[Ephesians 4:32]].
* `{{G3779}}` **hoútō** (so, thus, in this way): This adverb often completes a comparison initiated by **kathṓs**, creating a parallel structure. For example, believers are to walk "**even as** he walked" and therefore "**so** to walk" [[1 John 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2531}}` is significant, as it underpins several core Christian doctrines.
* **The Imitation of Christ:** The word is crucial for establishing Christ as the pattern for Christian life. Believers are to love "**as** I have loved you" ([[John 13:34]], [[John 15:12]]) and to walk "**even as** he walked" [[1 John 2:6]].
* **Scriptural Fulfillment:** By linking New Testament events to Old Testament prophecies with the phrase "**as** it is written," the word reinforces the concept of divine fulfillment and the authority of all Scripture ([[Romans 1:17]], [[Romans 4:17]]).
* **The Model of Divine Unity:** In His prayer for the church, Jesus uses `{{G2531}}` to establish the unity of the Father and Son as the model for the unity of believers: "that they may be one, **as** we are" [[John 17:11]].
* **Standard of Righteousness:** The word defines righteousness not as a human achievement but as a reflection of God's character. Believers are righteous "**even as** he is righteous" [[1 John 3:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2531}}` **kathṓs** serves as a vital connective term in the New Testament. It is more than a simple comparison; it is a word that establishes divine precedents for human behavior, links prophecy with fulfillment, and defines the very nature of the Christian life in relation to the actions and character of God and Christ. It demonstrates how believers are called to live not by their own standards, but **just as** their Lord lived.
TRV