from κατά and φέρω (including its alternate); to bear down, i.e. (figuratively) overcome (with drowsiness); specially, to cast a vote:--fall, give, sink down.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kataphérō**, represented by `{{G2702}}`, means **to bear down**. Appearing **3 times** in **2 unique verses**, it is derived from κατά and φέρω. The term is used figuratively to describe being overcome, such as with drowsiness, or more specifically, to cast a vote. Its meanings include to **fall**, **give**, or **sink down**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G2702}}` is used in two distinct contexts in the book of Acts. In his defense, Paul recounts his past persecution of believers, stating that when the saints were put to death, "**I gave** my voice against them" [[Acts 26:10]]. This usage signifies a formal act of casting a vote. In a different narrative, a young man named Eutychus, listening to Paul preach, was "**fallen** into a deep sleep" and ultimately "**sunk down** with sleep," causing him to fall from a window [[Acts 20:9]]. Here, the word describes being physically overcome.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts of `{{G2702}}`:
* `{{G5586}}` **psēphos** (voice): This word, meaning a **vote** or **verdict**, is the object of Paul's action in [[Acts 26:10]], where he casts his **voice** against the saints.
* `{{G5258}}` **hýpnos** (sleep): Eutychus was overcome with a deep **sleep** [[Acts 20:9]]. The term can also refer to a figurative spiritual torpor.
* `{{G4098}}` **píptō** (to fall): This word describes the direct result of Eutychus being "sunk down" by sleep, as he **fell down** from the third loft [[Acts 20:9]].
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō** (put to death): This word describes the severe consequence that Paul voted for, when the saints were **put to death** [[Acts 26:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2702}}` is revealed in its two powerful applications:
* **Deliberate Condemnation:** Paul's use of the term demonstrates a conscious and authoritative decision against God's people. In "**gave** my voice," he admits his role in the persecution, exercising **authority** (`{{G1849}}`) he received from the **chief priests** (`{{G749}}`) to condemn the **saints** (`{{G40}}`) [[Acts 26:10]].
* **Vulnerability to Drowsiness:** The story of Eutychus serves as a literal illustration of being overcome. While Paul was preaching (`{{G1256}}`), Eutychus "**sunk down**" with **sleep** (`{{G5258}}`), leading to his death and subsequent miraculous restoration [[Acts 20:9]]. This highlights a physical and potentially spiritual vulnerability to inattentiveness.
### Summary
In summary, **kataphérō** `{{G2702}}` carries a dual meaning of being "borne down." It can depict a willful action, such as casting a condemnatory vote, or an involuntary state, like being overcome by sleep. Though used sparingly in scripture, its occurrences in Acts vividly illustrate both the sober reality of human opposition to the faith and the physical frailty that can lead to peril.
TRV