### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kataráomai**, represented by `{{G2672}}`, means to execrate or, by analogy, to doom. As a verb, it is defined as "to curse." It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, often highlighting a sharp contrast between worldly actions and divine commands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2672}}` is used to convey both human and divine pronouncements. Believers are explicitly commanded to bless those who **curse** them, a teaching found in both Matthew's and Luke's gospels ([[Matthew 5:44]], [[Luke 6:28]]). Paul reiterates this principle, instructing the Roman church to "bless, and **curse** not" [[Romans 12:14]]. James uses the word to point out the hypocrisy of using the tongue to both bless God and **curse** men, who are made in God's image [[James 3:9]]. The term is also used to describe an act of divine authority, as when Jesus **cursed** the fig tree [[Mark 11:21]] and in the final judgment, where some are declared **cursed** and sent into everlasting fire [[Matthew 25:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions and attitudes surrounding cursing:
* `{{G2127}}` **eulogéō** (to speak well of, i.e. (religiously) to bless): This is the direct antonym of `{{G2672}}` and is the commanded response to being cursed. It is used in direct opposition in verses like "bless them that curse you" ([[Matthew 5:44]], [[Luke 6:28]]).
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the foundational command given to believers regarding their enemies, encompassing the more specific instruction not to curse them [[Matthew 5:44]].
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest; by extension, to love less): This word for "hate" is used alongside "curse" to describe the negative actions of others that believers are called to overcome with good [[Matthew 5:44]].
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray to God, i.e. supplicate, worship): This is another prescribed action for believers to take on behalf of those who curse or mistreat them [[Luke 6:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2672}}` is primarily seen in its contrast with Christian ethics and its connection to divine authority.
* **The Christian Response:** The most frequent use of `{{G2672}}` is to set up a counter-intuitive command for believers. Instead of returning a curse, they are to bless, demonstrating a higher, grace-filled standard of conduct ([[Romans 12:14]], [[Luke 6:28]]).
* **The Power of Speech:** James uses the word to teach on the immense power and contradiction of the tongue. The ability to both bless God and curse men reveals a deep spiritual problem that must be addressed [[James 3:9]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is not limited to human interactions. It is used to describe a final, authoritative declaration of doom from God upon the unrighteous, underscoring His ultimate power over destiny [[Matthew 25:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2672}}` is a potent word that signifies execration or doom. While it can describe human malice, its primary role in the New Testament is to serve as a foil for the Christian ethic of blessing one's enemies. It powerfully illustrates the moral discipline required of believers, the spiritual danger of the tongue, and the finality of divine judgment.
TRV