### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kataklínō**, represented by `{{G2625}}`, describes the act of reclining or sitting down, particularly for a meal. Its base definition is to recline down, or more specially, to take a place at table. It appears **5 times** across **3 unique verses**, highlighting its use in specific, significant contexts related to meals and gatherings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2625}}` is used to set the scene for pivotal moments. Jesus commands His disciples to make the multitude of five thousand men **sit down** in companies before the miraculous feeding [[Luke 9:14]]. The term is also used in a parable instructing guests at a wedding not to **sit down** in the highest room, teaching a lesson on humility [[Luke 14:8]]. Finally, it describes Jesus as he **sat at meat** with two disciples on the road to Emmaus, an act of fellowship that immediately preceded their recognition of Him after the resurrection [[Luke 24:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which one is made to sit down:
* `{{G2036}}` **épō** (to speak or say): This verb is used for the command Jesus gave his disciples to make the crowds **sit down**, showing the authority that initiates the action [[Luke 9:14]].
* `{{G2564}}` **kaléō** (to "call" ... bid): This term is used for being "bidden" to a wedding, establishing the social context of being an invited guest who must then choose where to **sit down** [[Luke 14:8]].
* `{{G4411}}` **prōtoklisía** (chief (highest, uppermost) room): This word defines the place of honor at a meal. It is the specific location one is cautioned against taking when choosing where to **sit down**, highlighting the theme of humility [[Luke 14:8]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2625}}` carries significant weight, framing key theological concepts:
* **Order and Divine Provision:** The command for the multitude to **sit down** in an orderly fashion is a prerequisite for the miracle of the loaves and fishes. This demonstrates how human cooperation and order are part of the setting for God's miraculous provision [[Luke 9:14]].
* **Humility:** The act of choosing where to **sit down** becomes a physical illustration of a spiritual posture. The parable in Luke explicitly links refusing the highest room with the virtue of humility, which will be rewarded [[Luke 14:8]].
* **Fellowship and Revelation:** It is in the intimate context of having **sat at meat** that the disciples' eyes are opened to the identity of the resurrected Christ. The simple act of sharing a meal becomes the moment of profound spiritual understanding [[Luke 24:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2625}}` is not merely about taking a seat. It is a word that organizes crowds for miracles, illustrates parables about spiritual humility, and establishes the setting for post-resurrection fellowship and revelation. The physical act of sitting down at a table is consistently tied to moments of divine instruction, provision, and recognition in the biblical text.
TRV