The Greek word katalalía, represented by G2636, refers to defamation, including backbiting and evil speaking. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term specifically describes speech that is derogatory and intended to harm another's reputation, often spoken against someone in their absence.
In its biblical occurrences, G2636 is consistently presented as a behavior to be rejected. Peter lists "evil speakings" among a series of vices that believers must lay aside, including "malice," "guile," "hypocrisies," and "envies" 1 Peter 2:1. Similarly, Paul expresses his fear of finding "backbitings" in the Corinthian church, where it is associated with a breakdown of community order, alongside "debates," "wraths," "strifes," and "tumults" 2 Corinthians 12:20. In both contexts, the word points to a destructive verbal sin that is contrary to Christian conduct.
Several related words highlight the environment in which katalalía thrives:
- G5587 psithyrismós (whispering, i.e. secret detraction): This term appears directly alongside "backbitings" and describes the secretive and slanderous nature of such talk 2 Corinthians 12:20.
- G2549 kakía (badness, i.e. (subjectively) depravity, or (actively) malignity, or (passively) trouble): This is listed as a foundational sin that must be laid aside along with "evil speakings," suggesting that defamation stems from an inner malice 1 Peter 2:1.
- G2054 éris (a quarrel, i.e. (by implication) wrangling): This is listed with "backbitings" as a cause of disorder in the church, highlighting the contentious and divisive results of such speech 2 Corinthians 12:20.
- G181 akatastasía (instability, i.e. disorder): This word describes the chaos and "tumults" that result from behaviors like backbiting, showing its destructive effect on community peace 2 Corinthians 12:20.
The theological weight of G2636 is focused on its destructive nature within the community of believers.
- A Sign of Carnality: Paul's concern over finding "backbitings" in Corinth frames it as a symptom of a church not walking in the Spirit. It is grouped with "debates," "envyings," and "wraths" as evidence of unresolved conflict and spiritual immaturity 2 Corinthians 12:20.
- An Obstacle to Holiness: In his first epistle, Peter commands believers to "lay aside" all forms of "evil speakings" as a prerequisite for spiritual growth, placing it in the same category as malice, guile, and hypocrisy 1 Peter 2:1.
- A Source of Division: The word is consistently associated with strife and disorder. Its presence leads to "debates," "strifes," and "tumults," undermining the unity and peace that should characterize the church 2 Corinthians 12:20.
In summary, G2636 katalalía is a term for malicious and defamatory speech that is strongly condemned in the New Testament. It is not merely idle talk but a destructive act that stems from internal vices like malice and envy. Its presence is treated as a serious threat to both personal holiness and the unity of the Christian community, identified as a behavior that must be put away by believers.
TRV