from κατά and the base of λαλέω; talkative against, i.e. a slanderer:--backbiter.
Transliteration:katálalos
Pronunciation:kat-al'-al-os
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G2637}}` (κατάλαλος, *katálalos*) is a compound term derived from the preposition κατά (*kata*), meaning "down" or "against," and the root of the verb λαλέω (*laléō*), meaning "to speak" or "to talk." Etymologically, it signifies "one who speaks against." Its semantic range specifically denotes a "slanderer" or "backbiter." This is not merely idle chatter or gossip, but speech that is intentionally malicious, defamatory, and aimed at undermining or harming another's reputation, often in their absence. The "against" component implies opposition, hostility, and a destructive intent behind the words. It describes an individual whose characteristic is to speak ill of others, often secretly or behind their backs, thereby causing division and discord.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G2637}}` appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[Romans 1:30]]. In this passage, the Apostle Paul delivers a sweeping indictment of humanity's sinfulness, particularly highlighting the moral depravity of those who have suppressed the truth about God. κατάλαλος is listed among a litany of severe vices that characterize a mind given over to unrighteousness, including being "God-haters," "insolent," "arrogant," "boastful," "inventors of evil," "disobedient to parents," "senseless," "faithless," "heartless," and "ruthless." The inclusion of "backbiters" (κατάλαλος) in such a grave catalog underscores the seriousness with which this sin is viewed. It is not merely a social faux pas but a profound manifestation of a fallen nature, indicative of a heart alienated from God and hostile towards one's neighbor. Its placement alongside other severe transgressions demonstrates that malicious speech is considered a fundamental breakdown in human relationships and a direct affront to divine order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of slander and harmful speech is prevalent throughout Scripture, often expressed through various related terms that highlight different nuances of the sin. Closely related to `{{G2637}}` is ψιθυριστής (*psithyristēs*, `{{G5587}}`), often translated as "whisperer," which also appears in [[Romans 1:29]] (though not in all manuscripts, it's often linked semantically). While ψιθυριστής emphasizes secret, insidious whispering, κατάλαλος focuses on the act of speaking *against* someone. Other relevant terms include:
* διαβολή (*diabolē*, `{{G1228}}`): "slander," "false accusation," from which the word "devil" (διάβολος, *diabolos*) is derived, highlighting the satanic origin and nature of slander.
* ψευδομαρτυρία (*pseudomartyria*, `{{G5577}}`): "false witness," directly violating the Ninth Commandment ([[Exodus 20:16]]).
* συκοφαντέω (*sykophanteō*, `{{G4811}}`): "to accuse falsely," often with a view to extortion.
* φλύαρος (*phlyaros*, `{{G5302}}`): "babbler," "gossiper," often referring to idle and meddlesome talk rather than strictly malicious.
* βλασφημία (*blasphēmia*, `{{G988}}`): "slander," "reviling," often directed against God, but also against humans.
These terms collectively underscore the multifaceted nature of harmful speech, ranging from idle chatter to outright malicious defamation, all of which are condemned in biblical ethics.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2637}}` and the sin of backbiting is profound.
1. **Violation of Love:** Slander fundamentally violates the command to love one's neighbor as oneself ([[Matthew 22:39]]). It is an act of hostility and ill-will, directly opposing the self-sacrificial love exemplified by Christ.
2. **Destructive to Community:** Malicious speech erodes trust, fosters division, and destroys the fabric of community, whether in the church or society at large. It undermines the unity and peace that God desires for His people.
3. **Manifestation of a Corrupt Heart:** As [[Romans 1:30]] indicates, backbiting stems from a heart that is ungodly and unrighteous. Jesus taught that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" ([[Matthew 12:34]]), implying that slander reveals an inner spiritual sickness.
4. **Contrary to God's Character:** God is truth and light; slander is falsehood and darkness. Engaging in backbiting is antithetical to reflecting God's character and living righteously.
5. **Hindrance to Salvation/Sanctification:** The New Testament warns that those who practice such deeds will not inherit the kingdom of God ([[1 Corinthians 6:10]]). Furthermore, believers are exhorted to "put off" such behaviors as part of the "old self" and to "put on" the new self, characterized by love and truth ([[Colossians 3:8-10]]).
6. **Power of the Tongue:** The sin of backbiting highlights the immense power of the tongue, which James describes as a "fire" capable of setting the "whole course of life on fire" ([[James 3:5-6]]).
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G2637}}` (κατάλαλος, *katálalos*) precisely defines a "slanderer" or "backbiter," emphasizing speech directed "against" another with malicious intent. Its singular appearance in [[Romans 1:30]] places it within a severe list of vices characteristic of humanity's rebellion against God, underscoring its gravity. Theologically, backbiting is a serious offense that violates the command to love, destroys community, stems from a corrupt heart, and is contrary to the character of God. It is a stark reminder of the destructive potential of the tongue and a behavior that believers are called to utterly reject as they pursue holiness and embody Christ's love.
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