### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katabolḗ**, represented by `{{G2602}}`, primarily refers to a **foundation** or, figuratively, a **conception**. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. The term comes from καταβάλλω, which implies a deposition or founding, establishing a point of origin both literally and conceptually.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2602}}` most often establishes a timeframe reaching back to the beginning of creation. It is a key component of the phrase "from the **foundation** of the world" ([[Matthew 13:35]], [[Luke 11:50]]) or "before the **foundation** of the world" ([[John 17:24]], [[Ephesians 1:4]]). This phrasing is used to describe things established in God's eternal plan, such as the kingdom prepared for believers [[Matthew 25:34]] and Christ being foreordained [[1 Peter 1:20]]. In a distinct figurative sense, it is used for physical **conception**, as when Sara received strength to **conceive** seed [[Hebrews 11:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2602}}`:
* `{{G2889}}` **kósmos** (world): Defined as an "orderly arrangement... the world," this noun is consistently paired with `{{G2602}}` to form the phrase "foundation of the **world**," setting a cosmic scale for God's eternal purposes [[Ephesians 1:4]].
* `{{G1586}}` **eklégomai** (to select): This verb, meaning "to select," is tied to `{{G2602}}` in passages concerning salvation, emphasizing that believers were **chosen** by God before the world's foundation was laid [[Ephesians 1:4]].
* `{{G2090}}` **hetoimázō** (to prepare): This word connects the idea of a foundation with divine action and foresight, highlighting the kingdom that was **prepared** for the faithful "from the foundation of the world" [[Matthew 25:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2602}}` is significant, anchoring key doctrines in eternity past.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The term is foundational to the doctrine of predestination, affirming that God's redemptive plan was not a reaction to events but was established "before the **foundation** of the world" ([[Ephesians 1:4]], [[1 Peter 1:20]]).
* **Christ's Preeminence:** Christ's relationship with the Father and His sacrificial role are described as existing before creation. He was loved by the Father "before the **foundation** of the world" [[John 17:24]], and He is the Lamb slain "from the **foundation** of the world" [[Revelation 13:8]].
* **Eternal Kingdom:** The inheritance of believers is not a recent promise but a kingdom **prepared** for them since the beginning of creation [[Matthew 25:34]].
* **Revelation of God's Plan:** Parables and prophecies serve to **utter** things kept secret "from the foundation of the world," revealing God's unfolding plan to humanity [[Matthew 13:35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2602}}` **katabolḗ** is a crucial term that defines the starting point of God's creative and redemptive work. Whether referring to the **foundation** of the world or the **conception** of new life, it points to a definitive beginning. Its use throughout Scripture underscores the eternal, unchanging nature of God's purpose, His sovereign plan for salvation, and the centrality of Christ from before time began.
TRV