### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kataklýzō**, represented by `{{G2626}}`, means to dash or wash down, with the implication of a deluge or overflow. Derived from κατά and the base of κλύδων, its definition points to a powerful and overwhelming action. According to usage statistics, it appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single use highly specific and impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G2626}}` is found in [[2 Peter 3:6]], where it describes the catastrophic event of the great Flood. The verse states that "the world that then was, being **overflowed** with water, perished." Here, **kataklýzō** is not merely a reference to a flood but to a complete and destructive inundation that eradicated the former world order, showing the immense power of the event it describes.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[2 Peter 3:6]] help clarify its meaning and impact:
* `{{G2889}}` **kósmos** (world): This term signifies an "orderly arrangement" or the world, including its inhabitants. It is the object of the deluge, the entire system that was **overflowed** [[2 Peter 3:6]]. It is the same **world** God so loved that He gave His Son [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G5204}}` **hýdōr** (water): This is the literal agent used to **overflow** the world [[2 Peter 3:6]]. While it is an instrument of destruction in this context, it is also used figuratively elsewhere as a source of "living **water**" and eternal life [[John 4:14]].
* `{{G622}}` **apóllymi** (to destroy fully, perish): This word describes the direct result of being **overflowed** with water. The world did not just get wet; it **perished** [[2 Peter 3:6]]. This contrasts with the promise that those who believe in God's Son should not **perish** [[John 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2626}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is used exclusively to describe a historic act of divine judgment. The act of being "overflowed" `{{G2626}}` resulted in the world perishing `{{G622}}`, a direct consequence delivered upon the "world that then was" [[2 Peter 3:6]].
* **Total Annihilation:** By using **kataklýzō** in conjunction with **kósmos** `{{G2889}}`, the text emphasizes the totality of the destruction. It was not just a regional flood but the deluge of the entire "orderly arrangement" of that age.
* **A Unique Cataclysm:** The singular use of `{{G2626}}` sets the Flood apart as a unique and definitive event. It serves as a biblical archetype for overwhelming destruction caused by water `{{G5204}}`, leading to a complete end, as the world "perished" `{{G622}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2626}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined by its singular context. While appearing just once, **kataklýzō** powerfully conveys the concept of a complete, world-ending deluge. Its use in [[2 Peter 3:6]] firmly anchors it to the great Flood, where it serves as the verb describing God's judgment that caused the ancient world to be overflowed and ultimately perish.
TRV