### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katasýrō**, represented by `{{G2694}}`, is defined as "to drag down, i.e. arrest judicially:--hale." It is a compound word formed from κατά (down) and σύρω (to drag). This term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use describes a forceful, non-consensual action within a legal context, signifying the act of being forcibly brought before a judicial authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2694}}` is in [[Luke 12:58]]. In this passage, Jesus uses a parable to urge for timely reconciliation. He advises that when going with an **adversary** `{{G476}}` to a **magistrate** `{{G758}}`, one should make every effort to be delivered from them. The consequence of failing to do so is to be **haled** `{{G2694}}` to the **judge** `{{G2923}}`. This action initiates a formal process of judgment that leads to being delivered to an officer and ultimately cast into prison. The word vividly portrays the loss of control once a matter enters the official judicial system.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context clarify the legal and consequential nature of **katasýrō**:
* `{{G476}}` **antídikos** (an opponent (in a lawsuit); specially, Satan (as the arch-enemy):--adversary): This is the opposing party in the legal dispute who brings the accusation, forcing the confrontation that could lead to being haled before the judge [[Luke 12:58]].
* `{{G2923}}` **kritḗs** (a judge (genitive case or specially):--judge): This is the figure of authority to whom a person is forcibly dragged. The concept extends from human officials to God as the ultimate **Judge** of all [[Hebrews 12:23]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit:--betray, bring forth, cast, commit, deliver (up), give (over, up), hazard, put in prison, recommend): This action immediately follows being haled; the judge will **deliver** the guilty party to the officer, continuing the chain of consequences [[Luke 12:58]].
* `{{G5438}}` **phylakḗ** (a guarding or (concretely, guard), the act, the person; figuratively, the place, the condition, or (specially), the time (as a division of day or night), literally or figuratively:--cage, hold, (im-)prison(-ment), ward, watch): This represents the final outcome of the judicial process described in the parable: being cast into **prison** [[Luke 12:58]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2694}}` is derived entirely from its context as a warning.
* **Judicial Finality:** The act of being "haled" signifies a point of no return. It represents the moment a dispute moves from a personal level to an official, binding judgment, illustrating the severe and inescapable consequences of facing judgment unprepared.
* **Spiritual Urgency:** The parable uses the legal system as a metaphor for spiritual accountability. The presence of an **adversary** `{{G476}}`, a term also used to describe Satan [[1 Peter 5:8]], elevates the warning to a spiritual level, urging reconciliation before a final divine judgment is enacted.
* **The Chain of Consequence:** The word `{{G2694}}` is a critical link in a process that ends in **prison** `{{G5438}}`. This progression serves as a stark illustration of how unresolved sin or disputes lead to an inevitable and undesirable final state.
### Summary
In summary, while **katasýrō** `{{G2694}}` is used only once in the Bible, its meaning is potent and clear. It is not a broad theological term but a specific, graphic word for a judicial arrest. Its significance comes from its role in a parable that warns of the escalating and dire consequences of failing to seek reconciliation, powerfully illustrating the finality and seriousness of judgment.
TRV