### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katalitházō**, represented by `{{G2642}}`, means **to stone down, i.e. to death**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures. It is formed from the words κατά and λιθάζω, combining to describe a fatal act of stoning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2642}}` occurs in a moment of high tension. When the religious leaders are questioned about the authority of John the Baptist, they deliberate among themselves. They conclude that if they claim John's authority was merely from men, "all the **people** will **stone** us" [[Luke 20:6]]. This is because the people were firmly persuaded that John was a prophet, and they were prepared to defend his honor with lethal force.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Luke 20:6]] provide a richer understanding:
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (a people): This refers to a people in general. It is used to describe God's chosen nation, Israel [[Matthew 2:6]], and the new covenant community whom God calls "my **people**" [[2 Corinthians 6:16]].
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince or rely on): This word signifies a deep conviction or trust. It is used to express confidence in God's ongoing work in believers [[Philippians 1:6]] and the assurance that nothing can separate them from His love [[Romans 8:38]].
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (a foreteller or inspired speaker): This title denotes someone who speaks on behalf of God. The term encompasses the foundational figures of the Old Testament, as in "the law and the **prophets**" [[Matthew 7:12]], and is the very title the people ascribed to John [[Luke 20:6]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{G2642}}` is found in its dramatic context. It reveals several key principles:
* **The Power of Conviction:** The people's readiness to **stone** the leaders shows the depth of their conviction. They were so **persuaded** `{{G3982}}` that John was a **prophet** `{{G4396}}` that they were willing to enact a capital punishment to defend that truth.
* **Accountability to the People:** The leaders' fear was not of God in this moment, but of the **people** `{{G2992}}`. Their potential response was a powerful force that directly influenced the leaders' public statements and actions.
* **The Defense of a Prophet:** The passage highlights the sacred status of a true **prophet** in the eyes of the populace. An attack on the prophet's legitimacy was seen as an attack on God, warranting a severe, communal response.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2642}}` is a potent but narrowly used term. Its single appearance in [[Luke 20:6]] does more than just describe an action; it captures a pivotal conflict where the unwavering faith of the people in a prophet of God becomes a life-and-death threat to the religious establishment. It powerfully illustrates how popular conviction regarding spiritual authority could shape critical moments in the biblical narrative.
TRV