from κατά and ἦχος; to sound down into the ears, i.e. (by implication) to indoctrinate ("catechize") or (genitive case) to apprise of:--inform, instruct, teach.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **κατηχέω (katēchéō)**, represented by `{{G2727}}`, means to sound down into the ears. By implication, it means to indoctrinate, instruct, or to apprise someone of something. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible, establishing its role in the context of instruction and the passing of information.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2727}}` is used to describe both formal instruction and the reception of information. For example, Apollos was "instructed in the way of the Lord" [[Acts 18:25]], and believers are described as being "instructed out of the law" [[Romans 2:18]]. The word is also used when people were "informed" about Paul’s teachings, suggesting a report or news being passed to them ([[Acts 21:21]], [[Acts 21:24]]). Luke writes his gospel so that Theophilus might know the certainty of the things in which he had been "instructed" [[Luke 1:4]]. The term encompasses a dynamic relationship, as seen when the one who is "taught" is urged to share with the one who "teacheth" [[Galatians 6:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of instruction and knowledge:
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō**: to "know" (absolutely). It is used to describe the result of being informed, where all may "know" if the things they were informed about are true [[Acts 21:24]].
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō**: to teach. This word is often used alongside `{{G2727}}`, as in the case of Apollos, who was first "instructed" and then "taught diligently" [[Acts 18:25]].
* `{{G1921}}` **epiginṓskō**: to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge. This deeper knowledge is presented as the goal of instruction, so one might "know" the certainty of the things they have been taught [[Luke 1:4]].
* `{{G2841}}` **koinōnéō**: to share with others. This highlights the practical relationship between teacher and student, where the one who is taught is to "communicate" with the one who teaches [[Galatians 6:6]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos**: something said; a word or matter. This often describes the content of the instruction, such as being taught "in the word" [[Galatians 6:6]] or concerning "those things" wherein one has been instructed [[Luke 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2727}}` is evident in its application to spiritual learning and discipleship.
* **Foundational Learning:** The word signifies the foundational instruction necessary for faith. This instruction provides the basis for a more certain and full knowledge, as described in Luke's purpose for writing his gospel [[Luke 1:4]].
* **Clear Communication:** The importance of clarity in teaching is highlighted by Paul, who would rather speak five understandable words to "teach" others than ten thousand words in a tongue [[1 Corinthians 14:19]].
* **Instruction from Scripture:** The law is presented as a source of instruction, from which a person is "instructed" to know God's will [[Romans 2:18]].
* **Reciprocal Ministry:** The relationship between the teacher and the taught is shown to be a mutual one, with a responsibility for the student to provide for the instructor, connecting spiritual learning to practical support within the community [[Galatians 6:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2727}}` is a specific term for instruction that "sounds down" into the ears of the learner. It covers the spectrum from being informed of a matter to receiving foundational teaching in the Christian faith. It underscores the value of clear, understandable teaching and points to the relational dynamic between those who instruct and those who learn, forming a basis for knowledge, certainty, and community within the church.
TRV