### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katapléō**, represented by `{{G2668}}`, is formed from κατά and πλέω and means **to sail down upon a place, i.e. to land at:--arrive**. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its meaning is focused on the conclusion of a journey by water.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G2668}}` occurs in the narrative of a voyage. The text states that "they **arrived** at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee" [[Luke 8:26]]. This act of arrival sets the stage for the events that follow in that specific region. The word marks the transition from being at sea to being on land, signifying the reaching of a precise destination.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words from its only context help clarify the meaning of this arrival:
* `{{G1519}}` **eis**: This preposition, meaning **to or into**, indicates the point reached or entered. It shows that the arrival was not just near the place, but **at** or into the country itself.
* `{{G5561}}` **chṓra**: Defined as a **space of territory**, this word specifies the destination as a distinct land, region, or country, often including its inhabitants.
* `{{G1046}}` **Gadarēnós**: This term identifies the inhabitants of the destination, meaning a **Gadarene or inhabitant of Gadara**. Their arrival was to a place defined by its people.
* `{{G495}}` **antipéran**: Meaning **on the opposite side**, this word emphasizes that the journey involved a crossing from one shore to another, in this case from the region of Galilee [[Luke 8:26]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G2668}}` itself simply denotes a physical action, its singular context imbues it with significance.
* **Purposeful Arrival:** The arrival is not accidental but a deliberate landing in a specific territory. The destination is described as the `{{G5561}}` **chṓra** of the Gadarenes, a place that is the setting for a significant encounter [[Luke 8:37]].
* **Crossing Boundaries:** The journey concludes "over against Galilee" [[Luke 8:26]], indicating a purposeful crossing into a different territory. This physical crossing precedes a spiritual encounter, suggesting a mission that extends to new regions and peoples.
* **Initiating Action:** The act of arriving is the pivotal event that initiates all subsequent interactions. The use of `{{G1519}}` **eis** (into) in this verse is echoed in other scripture to show purpose, such as calling sinners "to repentance" [[Matthew 9:13]] or baptizing "in the name of the Father" [[Matthew 28:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2668}}` **katapléō** is a concise term whose importance is magnified by its rare usage. It does more than describe the end of a boat trip; it marks the deliberate arrival at a specific destination for a distinct purpose. Its use in [[Luke 8:26]] serves as the gateway to a pivotal moment, connecting the physical act of landing to the significant spiritual events that were to unfold in the country of the Gadarenes.
TRV