### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katadoulóō**, represented by `{{G2615}}`, means **to enslave utterly** or **bring into bondage**. It is formed from κατά and δουλόω. According to usage statistics, it appears **4 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a specific and intense form of subjugation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural occurrences, `{{G2615}}` is used to describe a state of spiritual rather than physical enslavement. In [[Galatians 2:4]], it describes the goal of "false brethren" who "came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus," with the explicit purpose that "they might **bring** us **into bondage**." Similarly, in [[2 Corinthians 11:20]], the apostle Paul admonishes the Corinthians for their willingness to "suffer" if a man were to **bring** them **into bondage**, a condition listed alongside being devoured, taken from, and smitten on the face.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of being brought into bondage:
* `{{G5569}}` **pseudádelphos** (false brethren): This term identifies the source of the enslavement as a "spurious brother, i.e. pretended associate." In [[Galatians 2:4]], these individuals are the agents who seek to bring believers into bondage.
* `{{G1657}}` **eleuthería** (liberty): Defined as "freedom," this word stands in direct opposition to the bondage of `{{G2615}}`. The goal of the false brethren was to spy on and ultimately destroy the believers' liberty in Christ [[Galatians 2:4]].
* `{{G2684}}` **kataskopéō** (spy out): This word, meaning "to inspect insidiously," describes the deceptive method used to undermine the believers' freedom before bringing them into bondage [[Galatians 2:4]].
* `{{G430}}` **anéchomai** (suffer): This term, meaning to "put up with," highlights the passivity that allows for such bondage. Paul uses it to challenge the Corinthians for enduring those who would enslave them [[2 Corinthians 11:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2615}}` is significant, serving as a stark warning against spiritual oppression.
* **Subversion of Christian Freedom:** The primary use of the term is to describe a direct assault on the "liberty which we have in Christ Jesus" [[Galatians 2:4]]. It represents a force that seeks to nullify the freedom granted through the gospel.
* **Deception from Within:** The act of enslavement is initiated by those who are "unawares brought in" and masquerade as believers, described as "false brethren" `{{G5569}}`. This points to the danger of internal threats that lead to spiritual subjugation.
* **Spiritual Abuse and Exploitation:** In [[2 Corinthians 11:20]], being brought into bondage is linked with actions like being devoured `{{G2719}}`, taken from `{{G2983}}`, and having someone "exalt himself" `{{G1869}}` over the believers, framing it as a form of spiritual abuse.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2615}}` is a potent term for a complete and oppressive spiritual enslavement. It is not used for generic servitude but for a specific, hostile action intended to strip believers of their freedom in Christ. Its context within scripture reveals that this bondage is often imposed through deception by false teachers and stands as a direct antithesis to the liberty that is central to the Christian faith.
TRV