### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katályma**, represented by `{{G2646}}`, refers to a lodging-place. The base definition suggests a dissolution or a breaking up of a journey, implying a place of rest. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible and is translated as **guestchamber** or **inn**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2646}}` is used in two distinct contexts. In the account of Jesus' birth, it is translated as **inn**, describing the place where there was no room for Mary and Joseph [[Luke 2:7]]. Later, it is used twice and translated as **guestchamber**. In both Mark and Luke's gospels, Jesus instructs his disciples to ask a "goodman of the house" for the **guestchamber** where He could eat the Passover with them ([[Mark 14:14]], [[Luke 22:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of a lodging-place:
* `{{G3614}}` **oikía** (home, house(-hold)): This refers to an abode or residence. A **guestchamber** (katályma) would be a space within a **house** [[John 14:2]], and the goodman of the **house** is the one who provides it [[Luke 22:11]].
* `{{G3617}}` **oikodespótēs** (goodman (of the house), householder, master of the house): This term for the head of a family is directly connected. In both Mark and Luke, the disciples are sent to the **master of the house** to secure the guestchamber for the Passover ([[Mark 14:14]], [[Luke 22:11]]).
* `{{G5117}}` **tópos** (place, room): This word for a specific location or space is used to explain why the manger was used at Jesus' birth: there was no **room** (tópos) in the inn (katályma) [[Luke 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2646}}` is seen in its pivotal narrative placements.
* **A Place of Humble Beginnings:** Its first appearance as **inn** establishes the humble circumstances of Christ's birth. The fact that there was no **room** for them in the **inn** [[Luke 2:7]] highlights a theme of rejection at the very outset of the incarnation.
* **A Place of Sacred Preparation:** In stark contrast, its use as **guestchamber** marks the setting for the Last Supper. Jesus specifically directs his disciples to secure this room to eat the Passover, making it a place of deliberate and sacred preparation before His crucifixion ([[Mark 14:14]], [[Luke 22:11]]).
* **The Master's Authority:** The request for the **guestchamber** is made with authority, as "The Master saith" ([[Mark 14:14]], [[Luke 22:11]]). This demonstrates Christ's sovereignty in securing a place for his divine purpose, even when relying on the hospitality of a **householder**.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2646}}` is a specific term for a lodging-place that carries significant narrative weight despite its infrequent use. It is translated as **inn** in the context of Christ's birth, signifying a lack of space and a humble beginning [[Luke 2:7]]. It is then used as **guestchamber** for the Passover, becoming the prepared and sacred space for the Last Supper ([[Mark 14:14]], [[Luke 22:11]]). The word **katályma** thus frames two of the most critical moments in the Gospel, moving from a symbol of worldly rejection to a place of divine appointment.
TRV