from κατά and a derivative of the base of βάσις; to cause to go down, i.e. precipitate:--bring (thrust) down.
Transliteration:katabibázō
Pronunciation:kat-ab-ib-ad'-zo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G2601}}` (καταβιβάζω, transliterated as *katabibázō*) is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (*katá*), meaning "down" or "against," and a derivative of the base of βάσις (*básis*), which signifies "a stepping" or "a going." The underlying root relates to βαίνω (*baínō*), "to go" or "to walk." Therefore, the etymological construction points to the core meaning of "to cause to go down" or "to bring down." The definition provided, "to cause to go down, i.e. precipitate," accurately captures the sense of a forceful, decisive, or even violent downward movement. It implies a reduction in status, position, or a descent into a lower state, often with a connotation of judgment or condemnation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G2601}}` appears exclusively twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring in the Synoptic Gospels and in parallel accounts of Jesus' condemnation of the unrepentant cities:
* [[Matthew 11:23]]: "And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades."
* [[Luke 10:15]]: "And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades."
In both contexts, Jesus addresses Capernaum, a city that had been the center of much of His ministry and witnessed numerous miracles and teachings. The rhetorical question, "will you be exalted to heaven?", is immediately answered by the stark declaration, "You will be brought down to Hades." This stark juxtaposition highlights the profound reversal of fortune awaiting Capernaum. The "exaltation to heaven" refers to the city's unique privilege of having the Son of God among them, experiencing His divine power and hearing His message directly. The phrase "brought down to Hades" (εἰς ᾅδου καταβιβασθήσῃ) signifies not a mere physical descent, but a spiritual and eschatological judgment. Hades here represents a state of ultimate degradation, ruin, and spiritual condemnation, in sharp contrast to the divine favor and potential for heavenly exaltation that Capernaum had squandered through its impenitence. The use of `{{G2601}}` emphasizes the decisive and divinely orchestrated nature of this judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary antonym and conceptual contrast to `{{G2601}}` in these passages is ὑψόω (*hypsóō*, `{{G5312}}`), meaning "to lift up" or "to exalt," which is used in the rhetorical question about Capernaum's perceived destiny. Other related Greek terms that convey downward movement or judgment include:
* καταβαίνω (*katabaínō*, `{{G2597}}`): A more general term for "to go down" or "to descend." `{{G2601}}` implies a causative and often forceful "bringing down," whereas `{{G2597}}` is simply "to descend."
* βάλλω (*ballō*, `{{G906}}`): "To cast" or "to throw," which can sometimes imply a forceful downward motion, as in casting into hell.
* πίπτω (*píptō*, `{{G4098}}`): "To fall," often used in contexts of judgment or ruin.
The concept of divine judgment and the humbling of the proud is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, echoing Old Testament prophetic warnings against cities or nations that rejected God's truth, such as Tyre or Babylon ([[Isaiah 14:15]], [[Ezekiel 26:20]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2601}}` in its limited but potent usage is profound. It serves as a stark warning of divine judgment against spiritual pride and impenitence, particularly for those who have been given great privilege and revelation. Capernaum's failure to repent, despite witnessing Jesus' mighty works and hearing His authoritative teaching, rendered it subject to a more severe condemnation than even pagan cities like Tyre and Sidon ([[Matthew 11:21-22]]). This highlights the principle that "to whom much is given, much will be required" ([[Luke 12:48]]).
The "bringing down to Hades" signifies a reversal of fortunes determined by God's righteous judgment. It underscores God's sovereignty over the destiny of individuals and communities, demonstrating His prerogative to humble the proud and to bring low those who exalt themselves ([[Luke 14:11]], [[Matthew 23:12]]). The imagery of Hades points to a state of ultimate spiritual ruin and condemnation, a profound descent from potential glory to utter degradation. It is a powerful illustration of the consequences of rejecting the light of divine truth and grace.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G2601}}` (καταβιβάζω) concisely conveys the action of "to bring down" or "to precipitate" with force and decisiveness. Its exclusive New Testament occurrences in [[Matthew 11:23]] and [[Luke 10:15]] are pivotal, depicting Jesus' pronouncement of judgment upon Capernaum. This "bringing down to Hades" stands in stark contrast to the city's privileged position and potential for "exaltation to heaven," underscoring the severe consequences of impenitence in the face of divine revelation. The word thus encapsulates a crucial theological truth: God's righteous judgment will bring ultimate spiritual decline and ruin upon those who, despite profound exposure to His truth and power, refuse to repent and embrace His grace.
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