### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **κατανοέω (katanoéō)**, represented by `{{G2657}}`, means **to observe fully**. Derived from κατά and νοιέω, its definition includes to behold, consider, discover, and perceive. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a specific and intentional kind of observation that goes beyond a casual glance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2657}}` is used to direct attention toward a deeper understanding. Jesus commands his followers to **consider** the ravens and the lilies to grasp the nature of God's provision ([[Luke 12:24]], [[Luke 12:27]]). The word is also used to call for critical self-reflection, as when Jesus contrasts someone who beholds a mote in a brother's eye but does not **perceive** the beam in their own [[Luke 6:41]]. In the book of Hebrews, believers are urged to **consider** Jesus Christ as the Apostle and High Priest of their profession [[Hebrews 3:1]], and to **consider** one another to provoke love and good works [[Hebrews 10:24]]. This demonstrates a call to focused, purposeful thought.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of fully observing:
* `{{G991}}` **blépō** (to look at): This term is used in contrast with `{{G2657}}` in the teaching about the mote and the beam, where one **beholdest** `{{G991}}` the speck in another's eye but fails to **considerest** `{{G2657}}` the log in their own [[Matthew 7:3]]. This suggests `{{G991}}` can be a more general act of seeing.
* `{{G816}}` **atenízō** (to gaze intently): This describes the act of fastening one's eyes on something. It is used in sequence with `{{G2657}}` when Peter explains his vision, stating that after he **had fastened mine eyes** `{{G816}}` upon the sheet, he **considered** `{{G2657}}` its contents [[Acts 11:6]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): Often implying perception that leads to knowledge, this word is used when Moses first **saw** `{{G1492}}` the burning bush and then drew near to **behold** `{{G2657}}` it, indicating a progression from initial sight to deeper investigation [[Acts 7:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2657}}` is significant, highlighting a required spiritual discipline.
* **Perceiving Divine Truth:** The command to **consider** aspects of creation, such as the lilies, is a directive to observe the natural world in a way that reveals spiritual truths about God's character and care [[Luke 12:27]].
* **Christ-Centered Focus:** Believers are explicitly instructed to **consider** Jesus `{{G2424}}` in his role as **Apostle** `{{G652}}` and **High Priest** `{{G749}}`. This is not a passive acknowledgment but an active, ongoing contemplation of His person and work [[Hebrews 3:1]].
* **Faith Overcoming Sight:** Abraham's faith is defined by the fact that he **considered not** his own body as dead [[Romans 4:19]]. This demonstrates that true faith involves a deliberate choice to fix one's mind on God's promises rather than on prohibitive circumstances.
* **Intentional Community:** The word is applied to relationships within the church, where members are to **consider** one another with the specific goal of provoking **love** `{{G26}}` and **good** `{{G2570}}` **works** `{{G2041}}` [[Hebrews 10:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2657}}` is far more than a word for simple sight. It denotes a deliberate and focused observation intended to lead to discovery, understanding, and action. Whether it is perceiving God's provision in nature, focusing one's faith on Christ, or intentionally encouraging fellow believers, **κατανοέω (katanoéō)** represents a deep mental and spiritual engagement with the world and with God.
TRV