### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katakóptō**, represented by `{{G2629}}`, means to **chop down, i.e. mangle:--cut**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a potent and specific image of violent self-harm.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2629}}` is found in the account of the demon-possessed man in the country of the Gadarenes. The verse describes his tormented state, noting that "always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and **cutting** himself with stones" [[Mark 5:5]]. The word vividly portrays the physical self-destruction that was a manifestation of his profound spiritual affliction, highlighting a state of constant, uncontrollable anguish.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other words in its context help illustrate the severity of the man's condition:
* `{{G1275}}` **diapantós** (constantly): This adverb, meaning "through all time, i.e. (adverbially) constantly," emphasizes the relentless and unending nature of the man's actions and suffering [[Mark 5:5]]. It is also used elsewhere to describe continuous prayer or praise ([[Acts 10:2]], [[Hebrews 13:15]]).
* `{{G2896}}` **krázō** (to cry out): Defined as to "scream" or "call aloud," this word describes the audible aspect of the man's torment that accompanied the physical act of **cutting** [[Mark 5:5]]. It conveys a sense of deep distress and desperate outcry.
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (a stone): This word identifies the literal instrument used for the self-mutilation [[Mark 5:5]]. While stones can be symbolic of foundations or stumbling blocks ([[1 Peter 2:5]], [[Romans 9:33]]), here their use is purely destructive.
* `{{G1438}}` **heautoû** (himself): This reflexive pronoun is crucial, as it clarifies that the violent action of **cutting** was self-inflicted [[Mark 5:5]]. It points to an internal state of being turned against oneself.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2629}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful depiction of a life under destructive influence.
* **Destructive Power of Affliction:** The act of **cutting** or "mangling" serves as a stark illustration of the self-destructive consequences of spiritual bondage, showing how such forces seek to mar and destroy the individual.
* **A Portrait of Hopelessness:** The scene in [[Mark 5:5]], with its combination of crying and constant self-harm, paints a picture of humanity in its most desperate state, separated from divine peace and wholeness.
* **Integrated Suffering:** The use of **katakóptō** alongside **krázō** (crying) demonstrates that the man's torment was all-encompassing, affecting him physically, mentally, and audibly. The outward physical violence was an expression of an inner agony.
### Summary
In summary, while **katakóptō** `{{G2629}}` is used only once, its impact is significant. It is more than a simple word for "cut"; its meaning of "to mangle" provides a graphic and unforgettable image of extreme suffering and self-destruction. Its singular context in [[Mark 5:5]] serves as a powerful biblical illustration of the devastating effects of spiritual torment on a human life before divine intervention.
TRV