### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katatíthēmi**, represented by `{{G2698}}`, is defined as **to place down, i.e. deposit (literally or figuratively):--do, lay, shew**. Derived from κατά and τίθημι, it appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. The word's usage spans from a tangible, physical act of placement to a more abstract, figurative action of granting a favor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G2698}}` has two distinct applications. Its literal meaning is seen in the account of Christ's burial, where after being bought, taken down, and wrapped in linen, He was **laid** in a sepulchre hewn from a rock [[Mark 15:46]]. The other two uses are figurative, describing political maneuvering. In Acts, Felix was "willing to **shew** the Jews a pleasure" and so left Paul bound [[Acts 24:27]]. Similarly, Festus, "willing to **do** the Jews a pleasure," asked Paul if he would go to Jerusalem to be judged [[Acts 25:9]]. In both these instances, the word signifies depositing favor to gain goodwill.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the actions associated with `{{G2698}}`:
* `{{G2507}}` **kathairéō** (to lower... take down, destroy): This word describes the action immediately preceding the use of `{{G2698}}` in Christ's burial, where He was first **taken down** from the tree [[Mark 15:46]].
* `{{G2641}}` **kataleípō** (to leave down, i.e. behind... leave, reserve): This is used to show the result of Felix's desire to "shew a pleasure," as he **left** Paul bound [[Acts 24:27]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to distinguish, i.e. decide... judge): This term is linked to Festus's attempt to "do a pleasure," as his offer involved Paul going to Jerusalem to be **judged** [[Acts 25:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G2698}}` is demonstrated in its dual application of physical and social placement.
* **The Act of Burial:** The word is used for the reverent and final act of placing Christ's body in the tomb [[Mark 15:46]]. This literal usage emphasizes the physical reality of His death before the resurrection.
* **Depositing Favor:** In its figurative sense, `{{G2698}}` reveals a pattern of human motivation. Both Felix and Festus "deposit" a favor to appease the Jews, highlighting the political pressures present in the narrative of the early church ([[Acts 24:27]], [[Acts 25:9]]).
* **Literal and Figurative Placement:** The word bridges the gap between a physical deed and a social one. Whether laying a body to rest or granting a political concession, the core concept is a deliberate act of placing or depositing something for a specific purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2698}}` is a specific term that carries both literal and figurative weight. It marks the solemn, physical act of Jesus being **laid** in the sepulchre, while also being used to describe how Roman officials sought to **shew** or **do** a pleasure to manage political tensions. The word effectively illustrates how the simple action of placing something down can serve as a metaphor for bestowing favor or goodwill.
TRV