### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katáleimma**, represented by `{{G2640}}`, means **a remainder** or, by implication, **a few**, and is translated as **remnant**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a very specific application of this term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2640}}` is found in [[Romans 9:27]], where the prophet **Esaias** `{{G2268}}` is quoted concerning **Israel** `{{G2474}}`. The verse contrasts the vast **number** `{{G706}}` of the children of Israel, comparing them to the **sand** `{{G285}}` of the **sea** `{{G2281}}`, with the declaration that only a **remnant** will be saved. This single instance highlights a theme of divine selection from within a larger group.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Romans 9:27]] help clarify the meaning of a saved remnant:
* `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** (Israel): This refers to the adopted name of Jacob and his descendants. The remnant is a portion of this larger group, which God calls "my people **Israel**" [[Matthew 2:6]].
* `{{G706}}` **arithmós** (number): Defined as a reckoned-up number, this word establishes the idea of a vast population from which the remnant is drawn. It is also used in Revelation to specify the **number** of those sealed from the tribes of Israel [[Revelation 7:4]].
* `{{G4982}}` **sṓzō** (to save): This word means to deliver or protect. The central promise concerning the remnant is that they "shall be **saved**," a theme echoed in the declaration that belief in Christ leads to salvation [[Romans 10:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2640}}` is concentrated in its single appearance:
* **Prophetic Warning:** The concept is introduced as a direct quote from the prophet **Esaias** `{{G2268}}`, establishing it as a divine principle concerning Israel [[Romans 9:27]].
* **Contrast of Number and Salvation:** The word highlights a stark contrast. **Though** `{{G1437}}` the **number** `{{G706}}` of Israel's children is as vast as the **sand** `{{G285}}` of the **sea** `{{G2281}}`, this abundance does not guarantee salvation for all.
* **Divine Sovereignty in Salvation:** The declaration that a **remnant** "shall be **saved**" `{{G4982}}` underscores that salvation is an act of divine deliverance applied to a smaller group from within the whole.
### Summary
In summary, **katáleimma** `{{G2640}}` is a highly specific term whose entire biblical meaning is contained within a single prophetic statement in [[Romans 9:27]]. It encapsulates the theological principle that out of a great multitude, only a smaller portion, a **remnant**, is set apart for salvation. Its rarity underscores the focused and potent nature of this declaration.
TRV