### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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.
TRV