The Greek word katakrínō, represented by G2632, means to judge against or to sentence. It is derived from κατά and κρίνω and is translated as to condemn or damn. It appears 22 times across 19 unique verses, highlighting its role in contexts of judgment, sentencing, and ultimate consequences.
In scripture, G2632 is used to describe various forms of condemnation. It signifies the final judgment for unbelief, as stated in Mark's gospel: "he that believeth not G569 shall be damned G2632" Mark 16:16. It is also used to describe the act of passing sentence, such as when the chief priests and scribes "shall condemn G2632 him to death G2288" Matthew 20:18. In a foundational act of God, He sent His Son and "condemned G2632 sin G266 in the flesh" Romans 8:3. Conversely, Jesus shows mercy, telling a woman, "Neither do I condemn G2632 thee" John 8:11, contrasting human accusation with divine pardon.
Several related words help clarify the concept of judgment and condemnation:
- G2919 krínō (to distinguish, i.e. decide): This is the root verb from which G2632 is formed. It carries the broader sense of judgment, which can lead to condemnation, as warned in the command, "Judge not, that ye be not judged" Matthew 7:1.
- G2923 kritḗs (a judge): This noun identifies the one who performs the act of judgment. Believers are warned not to grudge against one another lest they be condemned, because "the judge standeth before the door" James 5:9.
- G1777 énochos (liable to, guilty of): This term describes the state of being liable for a penalty, which often precedes condemnation. The council condemned Jesus "to be guilty of death" Mark 14:64, directly linking the verdict to the state of guilt.
- G1252 diakrínō (to separate thoroughly, hesitate, doubt): This word for doubt is linked to condemnation. A person who eats while doubting is damned, "because he eateth not of faith" Romans 14:23.
The theological significance of G2632 is profound, establishing a clear line between righteousness and sin's consequences.
- The Condemnation of Sin: God's decisive action against sin is not just overlooking it, but actively condemning it in the person of Christ. Through His sacrifice, God "condemned G2632 sin G266 in the flesh" Romans 8:3.
- The Consequence of Unbelief: The word establishes a direct link between a lack of faith G4102 and damnation. This is a final, decisive sentence for those who do not believe G4100 Mark 16:16.
- The Danger of Hypocritical Judgment: Scripture warns that those who judge others end up condemning themselves, as they practice the same things, rendering them inexcusable G379 Romans 2:1.
- The Intercession of Christ: The threat of condemnation is answered by Christ. The question, "Who is he that condemneth G2632?" is met with the reality of Christ who died, is risen G1453, and "maketh intercession G1793 for us" Romans 8:34, standing in opposition to any sentence against believers.
In summary, G2632 katakrínō is more than a simple verdict; it is a word of definitive sentencing. It is used to describe the legal sentence of death, the moral condemnation of the world G2889 by the righteous, and the ultimate divine judgment against unbelief. This term starkly contrasts the fate of sin with the deliverance offered through Christ, who took on condemnation so that believers would not have to face it.
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