### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katára**, represented by `{{G2671}}`, is a term for **curse**, imprecation, or execration. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from κατά (intensive) and ἀρά, it denotes a profound state of being cursed or the act of pronouncing a curse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2671}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to the discussion of the **law** `{{G3551}}`, where those who rely on **works** `{{G2041}}` are described as being "under the **curse**" [[Galatians 3:10]]. It is also used to characterize the moral state of false teachers, who are called "**cursed** children" due to their hearts being exercised with **covetous practices** `{{G4124}}` [[2 Peter 2:14]]. The term is presented as the direct opposite of blessing, as both **blessing** `{{G2129}}` and **cursing** should not originate from the same mouth [[James 3:10]]. Furthermore, it is linked to fruitlessness and judgment, as land producing only **thorns** `{{G173}}` is "nigh unto **cursing**," with an end of **being burned** `{{G2740}}` [[Hebrews 6:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of the curse and its implications:
* `{{G1944}}` **epikatáratos** (accursed): This directly related word, meaning "imprecated, i.e. execrable," is used to declare that everyone who does not continue in all things written in the book of the law is **accursed** [[Galatians 3:10]].
* `{{G1805}}` **exagorázō** (redeem): Meaning "to buy up, i.e. ransom," this term describes the action of **Christ** `{{G5547}}`, who has **redeemed** believers from the **curse** of the law [[Galatians 3:13]].
* `{{G2129}}` **eulogía** (blessing): Defined as a "benediction" or "benefit," this word stands in direct contrast to `{{G2671}}`, highlighting the inconsistency of both **blessing** and **cursing** coming from the same source [[James 3:10]].
* `{{G3551}}` **nómos** (law): This term for "law" is intrinsically connected to `{{G2671}}`, as it is the "curse of the **law**" from which Christ provides redemption [[Galatians 3:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2671}}` is significant, particularly in understanding salvation.
* **The Curse of the Law:** The concept establishes that reliance on the **works** `{{G2041}}` of the **law** `{{G3551}}` places a person under a **curse**, as perfect obedience is required [[Galatians 3:10]].
* **Christ as the Curse-Bearer:** The ultimate theological use of the term is to explain that **Christ** `{{G5547}}` **redeemed** `{{G1805}}` believers from this state by **being made** `{{G1096}}` a **curse** in their place [[Galatians 3:13]].
* **A Mark of Moral Corruption:** The term is not only a legal status but also a description of a spiritual state. Those called "**cursed** children" are characterized by continuous **sin** `{{G266}}` and **covetous practices** `{{G4124}}` [[2 Peter 2:14]].
* **The Consequence of Fruitlessness:** A state of being cursed is associated with spiritual barrenness. Land that is **rejected** `{{G96}}` and bears only **thorns** `{{G173}}` and **briers** `{{G5146}}` is near to a **curse**, facing a final judgment of **being burned** `{{G2740}}` [[Hebrews 6:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2671}}` **katára** is more than just an execration; it is a foundational concept in understanding the human condition before God. It defines the consequence of the law, the depth of Christ's substitutionary sacrifice, and the state of spiritual corruption. The word powerfully illustrates the division between the cursed state under the law and the **blessing** `{{G2129}}` found through redemption in Christ.
TRV