### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb καταποντίζω (katapontízō), Strong's `{{G2670}}`, is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (katá), meaning "down" or "against," and a derivative related to Πόντος (Póntos), which refers to the open sea or deep. The etymological components thus clearly point to the core meaning: "to plunge down into the sea," "to submerge," or "to drown." Its semantic range primarily encompasses the literal act of sinking or being overwhelmed by water. Figuratively, it can extend to the idea of being utterly overcome or engulfed by circumstances, though its biblical occurrences maintain a strong connection to its literal aquatic sense. The term conveys a sense of being completely submerged and lost within the depths.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb καταποντίζω appears twice in the New Testament, both times in the Gospel of Matthew:
1. **[[Matthew 14:30]]**: "But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me."
In this passage, Peter, having initially walked on water towards Jesus, begins to καταποντίζω (sink) when his focus shifts from Christ to the tumultuous winds and waves. This is a literal sinking, directly illustrating the immediate physical consequence of Peter's faltering faith and fear. The verb emphasizes the rapid descent into the depths, highlighting Peter's desperate need for immediate divine intervention. His cry, "Lord, save me," underscores the peril and his recognition of Christ's sole ability to rescue him from being overwhelmed.
2. **[[Matthew 18:6]]**: "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea."
Here, καταποντίζω is used in a hyperbole to describe a severe form of judgment. Jesus declares that it would be preferable for someone who causes a "little one" (a young or vulnerable believer) to stumble or sin, to be καταποντίζω (drowned) in the deepest part of the sea with a heavy millstone around their neck. While not a literal command for punishment, the imagery is stark and vivid, emphasizing the extreme gravity of leading a believer astray. The "depth of the sea" (ἐν τῷ πελάγει τῆς θαλάσσης) intensifies the sense of utter destruction and inescapable judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of being overwhelmed by water is a recurring motif in biblical literature, often associated with judgment or salvation.
* **Water/Sea**: Related terms include θάλασσα (thálassa, `{{G2281}}`, sea) and ὕδωρ (hýdōr, `{{G5204}}`, water).
* **Sinking/Drowning**: While καταποντίζω specifically implies sinking into the sea, other words like βυθίζω (bythízō, `{{G1036}}`, to sink, plunge) share a semantic overlap. The Septuagint uses terms like καταποντίζω or καταπίπτω for similar concepts, such as Pharaoh's army being drowned in the Red Sea (e.g., [[Exodus 15:4]]).
* **Overwhelming/Overcoming**: The idea of being overwhelmed by circumstances or judgment can be seen in words like κατακλύζω (kataklýzō, `{{G2626}}`, to inundate, flood), as in the Genesis flood narrative.
* **Faith and Doubt**: In [[Matthew 14:30]], the contrast between Peter's καταποντίζω and Jesus' walking on water highlights the themes of human weakness, faith, and divine power.
* **Stumbling Block and Judgment**: In [[Matthew 18:6]], the concept of a "stumbling block" (σκάνδαλον, skándalon, `{{G4625}}`) is central, leading to the severe judgment depicted by καταποντίζω.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of καταποντίζω carry profound theological weight:
1. **The Fragility of Human Faith and the Omnipotence of Christ**: Peter's experience in [[Matthew 14:30]] serves as a powerful parable. His καταποντίζω illustrates that even a slight wavering of faith, a shift in focus from Christ to the overwhelming circumstances, can lead to spiritual and even physical peril. It underscores the absolute necessity of sustained faith in Christ's power to uphold and save. Conversely, Jesus' immediate rescue demonstrates His sovereign control over creation and His readiness to save those who cry out to Him, even in their moments of doubt. It is a testament to His grace and the security found only in Him.
2. **The Gravity of Causing Spiritual Harm**: The hyperbolic statement in [[Matthew 18:6]] reveals the immense value God places on His "little ones" – those who believe in Him, particularly the vulnerable or new in faith. To cause such a one to stumble is an offense of such magnitude that it warrants a judgment more severe than being literally καταποντίζω with a millstone. This imagery speaks to the profound responsibility believers have towards one another, especially towards those who are spiritually weaker. It highlights God's protective nature over His children and the severe consequences for those who would lead them astray from the path of righteousness. It is a stark warning against spiritual abuse, manipulation, or any action that undermines another's faith.
### Summary
Καταποντίζω (`{{G2670}}`) literally means "to plunge down into the sea" or "to drown." Its two New Testament occurrences vividly illustrate key theological truths. In [[Matthew 14:30]], Peter's καταποντίζω signifies the immediate consequence of faltering faith in the face of overwhelming circumstances, highlighting humanity's dependence on Christ's sustaining power. In [[Matthew 18:6]], the imagery of being καταποντίζω with a millstone serves as a hyperbolic warning, emphasizing the extreme gravity of causing a "little one" to stumble in their faith. Together, these uses underscore the dual themes of divine power and human reliance, and the profound seriousness with which God views actions that lead His beloved ones astray. The word thus speaks to both the peril of doubt and the dire consequences of spiritual harm.
TRV