### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb katarithméō (`{{G2674}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (kata, `{{G2596}}`) and the verb ἀριθμέω (arithmeō, `{{G705}}`). The base verb ἀριθμέω means "to count" or "to number." The prefix κατά in this context functions distributively or inclusively, conveying the sense of "among" or "down into" a group. Therefore, katarithméō signifies more than a simple counting; it means "to count among," "to reckon with," or "to include in a number." The core meaning emphasizes the act of formally enrolling or assigning someone or something to a specific category or group, thereby acknowledging their legitimate place within that collective. It implies an intentional act of inclusion rather than a mere enumeration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Katarithméō appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 1:17]].
* **[[Acts 1:17]]**: "For he was numbered with us, and had obtained his part of this ministry."
* **Context:** This statement is made by Peter to the gathered disciples in Jerusalem, explaining the necessity of replacing Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death. Peter recounts Judas's previous standing among them.
* **Analysis:** The verb is used in the perfect passive participle, καταριθμημένος (katarithmēmenos), which emphasizes a completed action with continuing results. Judas *had been* definitively and formally included among the twelve apostles. This highlights the legitimacy of his initial call and position within the apostolic college. The phrase "numbered with us" underscores that Judas was not merely an associate but a full, recognized member of the divinely appointed group of twelve. His inclusion was not accidental or informal; it was a deliberate act of God's providence, making his subsequent defection all the more grievous and significant. The use of katarithméō here reinforces the formal, official status of the apostles and the precise number (twelve) that was deemed essential for the foundational ministry of the early church.
### Related Words & Concepts
* ἀριθμέω (arithmeō, `{{G705}}`): The root verb, meaning "to count" or "to number." Katarithméō specifies the act of counting *into* a group.
* ἀριθμός (arithmos, `{{G706}}`): The noun for "number," often used in the context of a specific quantity or multitude.
* ἐκλέγομαι (eklegomai, `{{G1586}}`): "To choose out," "to select." While katarithméō describes the consequence of being included in a count, eklegomai describes the prior act of divine selection that led to such inclusion. The apostles were first chosen by Christ, and subsequently "numbered with" the established group.
* κλῆρος (klēros, `{{G2819}}`): "Lot," "portion," "inheritance." In [[Acts 1:17]], Judas "obtained his κλῆρος of this ministry," referring to his allotted share or portion in the apostolic service. His being "numbered with" them meant he received this divine assignment.
* ἀποστολή (apostolē, `{{G651}}`): "Apostleship," "ministry." This refers to the specific office and service to which Judas, and subsequently Matthias, was numbered.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of katarithméō in the New Testament carries profound theological weight, primarily in relation to divine appointment and the tragic nature of apostasy.
* **Divine Appointment and Formal Inclusion:** The term emphasizes the formal and divinely recognized status of the apostles. Judas's being "numbered with" them signifies a legitimate, God-ordained inclusion in a foundational, sacred group. This underscores the authority and divine commissioning inherent in the apostolic office. It highlights that the apostles were not self-appointed but were specifically chosen and formally recognized by God for a crucial role in establishing the church.
* **Integrity of the Apostolic College:** The fact that Judas *was* numbered among the twelve, and that his place needed to be filled (as seen in [[Acts 1:26]]), speaks to the theological importance of the specific number of apostles (twelve, echoing the twelve tribes of Israel). This maintains the integrity and symbolic completeness of the apostolic foundation upon which the Church is built. The "numbering" is not arbitrary but signifies a divinely established order.
* **Tragedy of Privilege and Fall:** The use of katarithméō in relation to Judas Iscariot intensifies the tragedy of his betrayal. He was not an outsider or a mere follower; he was genuinely "numbered with" the chosen, entrusted with a significant ministry. His subsequent fall from this position of unique privilege serves as a stark warning about the possibility of apostasy, even for those who have been formally included in God's service and entrusted with sacred responsibilities. It underscores that divine privilege does not negate human free will or the potential for profound spiritual failure.
### Summary
The Greek verb katarithméō (`{{G2674}}`) means "to count among" or "to reckon with," signifying a formal and intentional act of inclusion within a specific group. Its sole occurrence in the New Testament, in [[Acts 1:17]], describes Judas Iscariot as having been "numbered with" the apostles. This usage is highly significant, underscoring the divine appointment and legitimate status of Judas within the apostolic college, thereby highlighting the profound tragedy of his subsequent betrayal. The term emphasizes the formal nature of God's calling and the importance of the specific number and integrity of the apostolic office as foundational to the early Christian community. It serves as a powerful reminder of both the privilege of divine inclusion and the solemn responsibility that accompanies such a calling.
TRV