apparently a primary verb; to set on fire, i.e. kindle or (by implication) consume:--burn, light.
Transliteration:kaíō
Pronunciation:kah'-yo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb καίω (kaíō, `{{G2545}}`) is a primary verb, signifying the fundamental action of "to set on fire." Its semantic range extends from the active process of kindling or lighting something, such as a lamp, to the resulting state of burning. By implication, it also encompasses the idea of consuming or destroying by fire. This versatility allows καίω to describe both the initiation of fire and its destructive or illuminating effects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Καίω appears in various contexts throughout the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications:
* **Lighting for Illumination:** In passages like [[Matthew 5:15]], καίω describes the lighting of a lamp, emphasizing the purpose of light to be seen and to illuminate. Similarly, [[Luke 12:35]] speaks of keeping lamps "burning," signifying readiness and watchfulness.
* **Consuming by Fire (Judgment):** A prominent use of καίω is in contexts of divine judgment and destruction. For instance, [[Matthew 13:40]] uses it to describe the burning of weeds at the end of the age, a metaphor for the judgment of the wicked. In Revelation, καίω frequently depicts the burning of the earth, trees, and cities as part of God's wrath, such as in [[Revelation 8:7]] and [[Revelation 18:8]], where Babylon is "burned up with fire."
* **Literal Burning of Objects:** [[Acts 19:19]] provides a literal example where converts to Christianity "burned" their magic books, signifying a decisive break from their past practices. [[John 15:6]] similarly uses καίω for branches that are gathered and "burned" after being cut off, illustrating the fate of those who do not abide in Christ.
* **Figurative "Kindling" of Passion/Zeal:** While not its most common usage for spiritual fervor (which often uses `{{G2204}}` *zéō*), καίω can imply the kindling of a metaphorical fire. [[Luke 12:49]] presents Jesus stating, "I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled!" Here, καίω suggests the initiation of a profound, transformative, and potentially divisive work, often interpreted as the establishment of God's kingdom and the ensuing spiritual conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning and impact of καίω are often amplified by its association with other key biblical terms:
* **Fire (πῦρ, `{{G4442}}`):** This is the direct element involved in the action of καίω. The verb describes what fire does or what is done with fire.
* **Light (φῶς, `{{G5457}}`):** When καίω is used in the context of lamps, it directly leads to the production of light, which symbolizes truth, revelation, and God's presence.
* **Lamp (λύχνος, `{{G3088}}`):** A common object that is "lit" (καίω) to provide illumination, often used metaphorically for believers as light-bearers.
* **Consumption and Destruction:** The act of burning by καίω inherently implies consumption and often destruction, particularly in contexts of judgment.
* **Purification:** While not directly embedded in καίω itself, fire in the biblical narrative often serves a purifying function, burning away impurities. The action of καίω can be part of this process.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of καίω is multifaceted, touching upon God's character and humanity's response:
* **Divine Judgment and Holiness:** Καίω frequently underscores the righteous judgment of God. The act of burning represents the consuming nature of God's holiness against sin and rebellion. This is vividly portrayed in eschatological passages where the wicked, their works, or corrupt systems are "burned up," signifying ultimate destruction and the finality of divine justice ([[Matthew 13:40]], [[Revelation 18:8]]).
* **Illumination and Witness:** In the context of lighting lamps, καίω carries the profound theological meaning of spiritual illumination. Believers are called to be lights in the world ([[Matthew 5:15]]), and just as a lamp is lit to give light, Christians are to actively manifest the truth of the Gospel, not conceal it. This speaks to the active and visible dissemination of God's kingdom.
* **Testing and Refinement:** While καίω describes the action, the *result* of burning can be seen as a form of testing. What endures the fire is proven, while what is worthless is consumed. This subtly points to the refining aspect of God's dealings with His people and the world.
* **Divine Presence and Power:** Though not a direct descriptor of God, the act of "burning" is associated with divine manifestations (e.g., the burning bush in [[Exodus 3:2]] LXX, which uses καίω). This links the verb to the awe-inspiring power and holiness of God.
### Summary
The Greek verb καίω (kaíō, `{{G2545}}`) is a primary term signifying "to set on fire," encompassing the actions of kindling, burning, and consuming by fire. Its New Testament occurrences are rich in meaning, ranging from the literal act of lighting a lamp for practical illumination ([[Matthew 5:15]]) to the profound metaphorical depiction of divine judgment and destruction ([[Revelation 18:8]]). Theologically, καίω highlights God's righteous wrath and the finality of His judgment against sin, where all that is unholy is consumed. Conversely, in its application to light, it symbolizes the Christian's calling to be a visible witness, spreading the truth of the Gospel and illuminating the world with God's light ([[Luke 12:35]]). Thus, καίω serves as a potent word, embodying both the consuming power of divine justice and the illuminating power of God's truth and presence.
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