The Greek word katakrēmnízō, represented by G2630, means to precipitate down or cast down headlong. This rare verb appears only 2 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from κατά (down) and a word related to κρημνός (a precipice), its meaning is intrinsically tied to a violent, downward fall from a high place.
The sole biblical context for G2630 is a moment of intense, violent rejection. In Luke's Gospel, a crowd becomes enraged with Jesus, and they rose up G450, thrust G1544 him out of their city G4172, and led G71 him to the brow G3790 of the hill G3735 on which the city was built G3618. The narrative makes their intention explicit: they brought him there that G1519 they might cast him down headlong G2630 Luke 4:29.
Several related words help construct the scene and the crowd's methodical progression toward this act:
- G1544 ekbállō (to eject): This word, meaning to eject or cast out, describes the initial, forceful expulsion of Jesus from the city, setting the violent tone of the event Luke 4:29. It is the same term used for casting out devils Mark 16:17.
- G71 ágō (to lead): Meaning to lead or drive, this verb shows the crowd compelling Jesus toward the precipice Luke 4:29. The word can also describe being led by the Spirit, as when Jesus was led G71 into the wilderness Luke 4:1.
- G3790 ophrŷs (brow): Used figuratively to mean the brink of a precipice, this term pinpoints the exact location of the intended execution. It literally refers to an eyebrow, vividly depicting the sharp edge of the cliff Luke 4:29.
The theological significance of G2630 is concentrated in its single, dramatic appearance, highlighting the nature of the opposition to Christ.
- Intensity of Rejection: The word itself, describing a fatal fall, reveals the extreme depth of the crowd's rage. Their response to Jesus's words was not mere disagreement but a murderous impulse to utterly destroy Him Luke 4:29.
- Deliberate Hostility: The plan to cast him down headlong G2630 was not a random act of a mob but the stated goal of a series of deliberate actions: rising up, thrusting Him out, and leading Him to a specific location for the purpose of execution Luke 4:29.
- Rejection by His Own: The setting is crucial; the attempt occurs on the hill where "their city was built" Luke 4:29. The community intended to use the very geography of their home as the instrument of His death, signifying a profound and personal rejection.
In summary, katakrēmnízō G2630 is a potent word that, despite its rarity, defines a pivotal moment of conflict in the Gospels. Its singular use in Luke 4:29 powerfully captures the premeditated and lethal hostility Jesus faced from his own community early in His ministry. The word encapsulates the ultimate goal of their rage: to violently and permanently cast Him down.
TRV