from κατά and μανθάνω; to learn thoroughly, i.e. (by implication) to note carefully:--consider.
Transliteration:katamanthánō
Pronunciation:kat-am-an-than'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb katamanthánō (`{{G2648}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition katá (`{{G2596}}`) and the verb manthánō (`{{G3129}}`). The base verb manthánō signifies "to learn," "to understand," or "to acquire knowledge." The prefix katá, in this context, functions as an intensifier, indicating completeness, thoroughness, or a downward motion into something. Thus, katamanthánō literally means "to learn thoroughly," "to understand completely," or "to grasp fully." By implication, this deep learning is achieved through careful, attentive observation, leading to the derived meaning of "to note carefully," "to consider attentively," or "to observe with full comprehension." It denotes a process of mental engagement that goes beyond a superficial glance, aiming for profound insight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb katamanthánō (`{{G2648}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Sermon on the Mount:
* [[Matthew 6:28]]: "And why are you anxious about clothing? *Consider* the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin."
In this pivotal passage, Jesus instructs His disciples to "consider" (καταμανθάνω) the lilies. The command is not merely to look at them aesthetically, but to engage in a deep, reflective observation that leads to understanding and a theological conclusion. The context is Jesus' teaching on worry and anxiety concerning material needs (food and clothing). By directing His listeners to "consider" the natural world, Jesus invites them to perceive the divine order and meticulous care evident in creation. The lilies, though temporary and without human effort, are clothed by God in a splendor surpassing that of Solomon. This careful consideration is intended to instill trust in God's benevolent provision for His human children, who are of far greater value than the flowers of the field. It is a call to learn from creation about the character and faithfulness of the Creator.
### Related Words & Concepts
* manthánō (`{{G3129}}`): The root verb, meaning "to learn," "to be a disciple." katamanthánō intensifies this learning process, emphasizing thoroughness.
* noéō (`{{G3539}}`): To perceive with the mind, to understand, to comprehend. While noéō focuses on mental apprehension, katamanthánō emphasizes the observational process that leads to such understanding.
* syníēmi (`{{G4920}}`): To understand, to comprehend, to grasp the meaning, often implying a spiritual or intellectual discernment.
* theōréō (`{{G2334}}`): To look at, to behold, to observe, often with a sense of contemplation or scrutiny. While theōréō describes the act of seeing, katamanthánō moves beyond mere sight to the internal processing and learning derived from that observation.
* Concepts: Divine providence, trust in God, spiritual discernment, observation as a means of learning about God, the pedagogical role of creation, overcoming anxiety through faith.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of katamanthánō (`{{G2648}}`) in [[Matthew 6:28]] carries profound theological weight. It is a direct command from Jesus, urging a specific kind of engagement with the natural world that serves as an antidote to human anxiety. The act of "considering" the lilies is not an idle pastime but a spiritual discipline. It calls believers to:
1. **Discern God's Providence:** To see beyond the visible and recognize the invisible hand of God at work in sustaining even the simplest forms of life. This observation reveals God's meticulous care and faithfulness.
2. **Cultivate Trust:** By learning from the lilies' effortless beauty and God's provision for them, disciples are encouraged to trust that their Heavenly Father will surely provide for their greater needs. This trust directly counters the worry and anxiety that plague human existence.
3. **Reorient Perspective:** The command redirects focus from self-reliance and worldly anxieties to God's sovereign care. It teaches that true security is found not in accumulation or striving, but in resting in divine provision.
4. **Embrace Creation as Teacher:** Jesus presents creation not merely as an object of beauty, but as a living sermon, a testament to God's character and power. To "consider" it thoroughly is to be discipled by it, learning fundamental truths about God's kingdom.
### Summary
katamanthánō (`{{G2648}}`) is a powerful Greek verb meaning "to learn thoroughly" or "to consider carefully," implying a deep, reflective observation. Its sole appearance in [[Matthew 6:28]] is highly significant, as Jesus uses it to instruct His followers to "consider" the lilies of the field. This command is not a casual suggestion but a directive for profound engagement with creation, designed to reveal God's meticulous providential care. By thoroughly observing the natural world, believers are meant to grasp a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness, thereby overcoming anxiety and cultivating a robust trust in His provision. The word encapsulates the essence of learning spiritual truths through discerning observation of God's handiwork, leading to a life of greater faith and reliance on the divine.
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