from καταλλάσσω; exchange (figuratively, adjustment), i.e. restoration to (the divine) favor:--atonement, reconciliation(-ing).
Transliteration:katallagḗ
Pronunciation:kat-al-lag-ay'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun καταλλαγή (katallagḗ) derives from the verb καταλλάσσω (katallássō, `{{G2644}}`), meaning "to change, to exchange, to reconcile." At its fundamental level, καταλλαγή denotes a change from one state to another, specifically the transformation of a hostile or estranged relationship into one of peace and favor. Its semantic range encompasses:
* **Reconciliation:** This is the primary and most prominent meaning, referring to the restoration of a relationship that was broken or alienated. It signifies the re-establishment of harmony and accord.
* **Atonement:** In a theological context, καταλλαγή points to the means by which this reconciliation is achieved, often implying a satisfaction or propitiation that addresses the cause of estrangement (sin).
* **Exchange/Adjustment:** The underlying sense of a transaction or alteration that brings about the new state. It is not merely a change of mind, but a fundamental alteration of the relational status.
Thus, καταλλαγή consistently describes a movement from a state of enmity or alienation to one of amity, acceptance, and restored communion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term καταλλαγή appears exclusively in the Pauline epistles within the New Testament, highlighting its central role in Paul's theological framework concerning salvation.
* **Romans 5:11**: "And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the καταλλαγή." Here, καταλλαγή is presented as a present reality and a completed work received by believers through Christ. It is the state of being reconciled with God, which brings profound spiritual joy. This verse emphasizes the *result* of Christ's work for believers.
* **Romans 11:15**: "For if the casting away of them be the καταλλαγή of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?" In this eschatological context, Paul discusses the temporary rejection of Israel, paradoxically leading to the reconciliation of the Gentile world with God. This demonstrates the universal scope of God's reconciling plan, even as it unfolds through specific historical dynamics concerning Israel. The "casting away" of Israel is depicted as instrumental in opening the way for the world's reconciliation.
* **2 Corinthians 5:18-19**: "And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of καταλλαγή; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of καταλλαγή." These verses are foundational for understanding καταλλαγή. It is depicted as both a divine accomplishment ("God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself") and a human commission ("the ministry of καταλλαγή," "the word of καταλλαγή"). God is the initiator and agent of this reconciliation, not imputing sin to humanity. Believers are then entrusted with proclaiming this message of reconciliation to others.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding καταλλαγή is enhanced by examining its relationship with other significant biblical terms:
* **καταλλάσσω (katallássō, `{{G2644}}`):** This is the verbal form from which καταλλαγή is derived, meaning "to reconcile." It describes the action of God in bringing about the state of reconciliation. God is consistently portrayed as the primary agent of this act.
* **ἀποκαταλλάσσω (apokatallássō, `{{G604}}`):** An intensified form of the verb, found in Colossians and Ephesians, which emphasizes a complete or thorough reconciliation, often with a cosmic dimension, bringing all things back into harmony with God. See [[Colossians 1:20]] and [[Ephesians 2:16]].
* **ἱλαστήριον (hilastērion, `{{G2435}}`):** Often translated as "propitiation" or "atoning sacrifice." While καταλλαγή describes the *result* (reconciliation), ἱλαστήριον describes the *means* by which God's righteous wrath against sin is appeased, thereby making reconciliation possible through Christ's sacrifice. See [[Romans 3:25]].
* **δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosynē, `{{G1343}}`):** Righteousness. Reconciliation is intrinsically linked with justification (being declared righteous), as both address the fundamental brokenness in the human-divine relationship caused by sin. Through Christ, believers are simultaneously reconciled and declared righteous.
* **Peace (εἰρήνη, eirēnē, `{{G1515}}`):** Reconciliation inherently leads to peace with God, replacing the former state of enmity. [[Romans 5:1]] states, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ," directly following the mention of reconciliation in [[Romans 5:10-11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of καταλλαγή is profound and central to Christian doctrine:
* **Divine Initiative:** The most crucial theological insight is that God is the reconciler, not merely the one to be reconciled. Humanity, alienated by sin, was unable to bridge the chasm. God, in His sovereign love and mercy, took the initiative to restore the relationship, as explicitly stated in [[2 Corinthians 5:19]]: "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself."
* **Christ's Centrality:** The reconciliation is accomplished "by Jesus Christ" ([[Romans 5:11]]) and "in Christ" ([[2 Corinthians 5:19]]). His atoning death on the cross is the unique and sufficient means by which God removes the barrier of sin, making reconciliation possible. Christ is both the mediator and the sacrifice.
* **Restoration of Relationship:** καταλλαγή signifies a radical and complete transformation from a state of hostility, alienation, and condemnation to one of peace, divine favor, and renewed fellowship with God. It is not a mere change in God's attitude, but a fundamental alteration of the relationship itself, made possible by God's action in Christ.
* **Foundation for Ministry:** Because God has accomplished this magnificent work of reconciling humanity to Himself through Christ, believers are given "the ministry of καταλλαγή" ([[2 Corinthians 5:18]]). This underscores the church's divine mandate to proclaim the good news of reconciliation, inviting all people to receive the peace and forgiveness offered in Christ. It highlights the evangelistic and missionary imperative.
* **Non-Imputation of Sin:** A key aspect of reconciliation highlighted in [[2 Corinthians 5:19]] is that God does not "impute their trespasses unto them." This means that the record of humanity's sin is not held against them, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of God's gracious act in reconciliation.
### Summary
καταλλαγή (katallagḗ) is a pivotal New Testament term, predominantly featured in the Pauline epistles, signifying **reconciliation**. It describes the profound act of restoring a broken relationship between God and humanity, moving from a state of enmity and alienation due to sin to one of peace, favor, and renewed communion. This reconciliation is entirely God's gracious initiative, uniquely accomplished through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ on the cross, as powerfully articulated in [[Romans 5:11]] and [[2 Corinthians 5:18-19]]. For those who believe, it is a completed reality that brings profound joy and peace with God. Furthermore, the concept of καταλλαγή underscores the believer's call to participate in the "ministry of reconciliation," proclaiming this transformative message to a world in desperate need of God's restoring grace. The term embodies God's active love in overcoming the barrier of sin and re-establishing fellowship with His creation.
TRV