### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katapíptō**, represented by `{{G2667}}`, means **to fall down**. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition is derived from κατά and πίπτω, conveying the direct action of falling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2667}}` is used to describe a sudden, physical act of falling. During Paul's recounting of his conversion, he states that he and his companions were all **fallen** to the **earth** `{{G1093}}` upon hearing a heavenly voice [[Acts 26:14]]. In a separate event, after Paul is bitten by a viper, the people watching him expected that he should have **fallen down** **dead** `{{G3498}}` suddenly [[Acts 28:6]]. Both instances depict an abrupt, downward physical movement in response to or in expectation of a powerful event.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of falling:
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): This word specifies the destination of the fall. In Paul's vision, he and his companions were **fallen** to the **earth** [[Acts 26:14]]. Its definition is soil, or the solid part of the globe.
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This describes the state associated with an anticipated fall. The people on the island expected Paul to have **fallen down** **dead** suddenly [[Acts 28:6]].
* `{{G4328}}` **prosdokáō** (to anticipate... to await): This term frames the context of the fall in [[Acts 28:6]], where the people **looked** for Paul to fall, showing their expectation of the event.
* `{{G4092}}` **pímprēmi** (swollen): This is presented as an alternative outcome the people **looked** for, that Paul might have **swollen** or **fallen down**, highlighting the dire physical expectations [[Acts 28:6]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2667}}` carries specific contextual weight, illustrating reactions to supernatural power.
* **Physical Response to a Divine Encounter:** In the account of Paul's conversion, **falling** to the **earth** is the immediate physical reaction of humans in the presence of a heavenly voice, showing the overwhelming nature of the divine manifestation [[Acts 26:14]].
* **Indicator of Life and Death:** The expectation that Paul would have **fallen down** **dead** sets up a moment of theological drama [[Acts 28:6]]. His failure to do so is a sign of divine protection. The absence of the fall, not its occurrence, demonstrates God's power over what should have been a fatal event.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2667}}` **katapíptō** denotes a literal, physical act of falling down. Though it appears infrequently, its usage is significant. It is used to describe both the physical reaction to a direct encounter with divine power and the expected consequence of a mortal wound. The context surrounding `{{G2667}}` reveals themes of divine power, human frailty, and God's ability to intervene and preserve life.
TRV