### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katapínō**, represented by `{{G2666}}`, means to drink down or gulp entire. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition encompasses both literal and figurative consumption, with renderings such as **devour**, **drown**, and **swallow (up)**. The word conveys a sense of being completely overwhelmed or consumed, whether by a physical force or an abstract power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2666}}` is used to illustrate total consumption in various contexts. It depicts a literal physical act when the earth **opened** her mouth and **swallowed up** a flood [[Revelation 12:16]], or when the Egyptians who were **assaying** to cross the Red Sea were **drowned** [[Hebrews 11:29]]. Figuratively, it describes the destructive aim of the devil, who as a roaring **lion** seeks whom he may **devour** [[1 Peter 5:8]]. The term is also used to express being overcome by emotion, as in the warning that a person might be **swallowed up** with overmuch **sorrow** [[2 Corinthians 2:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the contexts in which `{{G2666}}` appears:
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): This is the ultimate enemy which is to be **swallowed up** in victory, showing the finality of Christ's triumph [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* `{{G3534}}` **nîkos** (victory): This is the force by which **death** is overcome, demonstrating that being **swallowed up** can be an act of conquest and triumph, not just destruction [[1 Corinthians 15:54]].
* `{{G476}}` **antídikos** (adversary): This term identifies the enemy, specifically the devil, whose intent is to **devour** the faithful, highlighting the spiritual danger that necessitates vigilance [[1 Peter 5:8]].
* `{{G3077}}` **lýpē** (sorrow): This word for sadness or grief can become so overwhelming that it figuratively threatens to **swallow up** a person, showing the intense power of human emotion [[2 Corinthians 2:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2666}}` is significant, highlighting concepts of both ultimate destruction and ultimate victory.
* **The Final Defeat of Death:** The most prominent theological use of this word is to describe the end of mortality. Both **death** and that which is **mortal** are said to be **swallowed up**, by **victory** and by life, respectively ([[1 Corinthians 15:54]], [[2 Corinthians 5:4]]).
* **The Nature of Spiritual Warfare:** The word is used to characterize the predatory nature of the believer's **adversary**. The warning that the devil seeks to **devour** Christians frames the spiritual life as one requiring sobriety and vigilance against a real and present danger [[1 Peter 5:8]].
* **The Power of Forgiveness and Comfort:** The concern that a person could be **swallowed up** with **sorrow** underscores the importance of community care. It implies that without forgiveness and comfort from fellow believers, grief can become a consuming, destructive force [[2 Corinthians 2:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2666}}` is a powerful word that signifies complete consumption. It is used literally to describe drowning and the earth swallowing a flood. However, its figurative applications carry profound theological meaning, illustrating the destructive potential of a spiritual **adversary** and overwhelming **sorrow**, as well as the complete and final triumph of life and **victory** over **death**. The word masterfully captures the essence of being entirely overcome, whether by peril or by salvation.
TRV