### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G2655 (katanarkáō) is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning "down" or used as an intensifier, and the verb ναρκάω (narkaō), which means "to be numb" or "to be torpid." The base word ναρκάω itself relates to νάρκη (narkē), signifying "numbness" or "sluggishness," and is the root of the English word "narcotic."
Literally, G2655 means "to grow utterly numb" or "to be completely torpid," suggesting a state of debilitating inactivity or paralysis. By implication, this literal sense extends to a figurative meaning of being slothful or inactive. However, its most prominent usage in the New Testament, as will be seen, shifts to a specific financial connotation: "to be burdensome" or "to be chargeable," implying a state where one is a drain or expense to others, akin to a sluggish or numb person who cannot contribute and becomes a burden. The intensifying prefix κατά underscores the completeness or severity of this state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G2655 (katanarkáō) appears exclusively in the New Testament in Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians, always in the negative and always referring to Paul's financial relationship with the Corinthian church.
1. **[[2 Corinthians 11:9]]**: "And when I was present with you and was in need, I was not a burden to anyone (οὐ κατενάρκησα οὐδενός)." Here, Paul asserts his self-sufficiency, even in times of need, emphasizing that he did not impose financial obligations on the Corinthians. The context is his defense against accusations from false apostles who likely did exploit the church.
2. **[[2 Corinthians 12:13]]**: "For in what respect were you less favored than the rest of the churches, except that I myself was not a burden to you (οὐ κατενάρκησα ὑμῶν)?" Paul sarcastically highlights his unique practice of not being a financial burden, contrasting it with the perceived "privileges" other churches might have received from their apostles. This reinforces his commitment to a non-burdensome ministry.
3. **[[2 Corinthians 12:14]]**: "Behold, this third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you (οὐ καταναρκήσω ὑμῶν); for I do not seek your possessions, but you." This verse reiterates Paul's unwavering resolve. His refusal to be a financial burden is explicitly linked to his desire for the Corinthians themselves, not their material wealth.
In all three instances, G2655 (katanarkáō) is used to denote being a financial drain or expense. Paul's consistent refusal to "be a burden" to the Corinthians underscores a deliberate policy of self-support, contrasting sharply with the practices of those who sought to profit from their ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core of G2655 lies in ναρκάω (narkaō), meaning "to be numb" or "sluggish." This root also gives us the noun νάρκη (narkē), which refers to numbness or torpor, and even to the electric ray fish (torpedo fish) known for its numbing shock. While the New Testament usage of G2655 moves beyond literal numbness to financial burden, the underlying sense of being a drain or a dead weight remains.
Related concepts include:
* **Self-sufficiency:** Paul's practice of working with his own hands (e.g., [[Acts 18:3]], [[1 Thessalonians 2:9]]) to avoid being dependent.
* **Apostolic Integrity:** His refusal to be burdensome was a mark of his genuine apostleship, distinguishing him from those who ministered for personal gain.
* **Financial Support of Ministry:** While Paul chose not to be a burden in Corinth, he affirmed the right of ministers to receive support (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 9:1-14]], [[Galatians 6:6]]). His specific choice in Corinth was strategic.
* **Burden (βάρος - baros):** A more general term for weight or burden, which Paul often avoided imposing.
* **Exploitation (πλεονεξία - pleonexia):** The vice of greed or covetousness, which Paul's actions directly countered.
### Theological Significance
The consistent use of G2655 (katanarkáō) in 2 Corinthians carries profound theological significance regarding the nature of Christian ministry and apostolic integrity:
1. **Integrity of the Gospel Proclamation:** Paul's refusal to be a financial burden safeguarded the purity of the Gospel message. By not accepting support from the Corinthians, he demonstrated that the Gospel was a free gift, not a commodity to be bought or sold. This countered any perception that he was ministering for personal gain, thereby removing a potential stumbling block to faith.
2. **Apostolic Authenticity:** In a context where false apostles were likely exploiting the Corinthian church, Paul's self-sacrifice served as a powerful testament to his genuine calling. His actions distinguished him as a true servant of Christ, willing to suffer hardship rather than compromise his ministry or the church's resources.
3. **Model of Self-Sacrifice and Humility:** Paul's practice of working to support himself, rather than relying on the church, exemplified humility and self-sacrificial service. It underscored that true ministry is about serving others, not being served, and prioritizing the spiritual well-being of the flock over personal comfort or gain.
4. **Strategic Ministry:** While Paul affirmed the right of ministers to be supported, his specific choice regarding the Corinthians was a strategic one, designed to counter specific challenges and perceptions within that community. It highlights the contextual wisdom required in ministry, where principles are applied flexibly for the greater good of the Gospel.
### Summary
The Greek word G2655 (katanarkáō), derived from κατά (intensifier) and ναρκάω (to be numb/torpid), literally means "to grow utterly numb." However, its exclusive New Testament usage in 2 Corinthians takes on a figurative and highly specific meaning: "to be a financial burden" or "to be chargeable." Paul repeatedly uses this term to emphasize his deliberate policy of not imposing financial demands on the Corinthian church. This practice was a cornerstone of his apostolic integrity, serving to distinguish his genuine ministry from that of false apostles who sought personal gain. Theologically, Paul's refusal to G2655 (katanarkáō) them underscores the free nature of the Gospel, the authenticity of his calling, and provides a powerful model of self-sacrificial service and wise stewardship in ministry.
TRV