### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katṓteros**, represented by `{{G2737}}`, is a comparative term meaning **lower** or inferior. It is used to describe a place that is locally inferior, such as Hades. This specific word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single instance particularly significant for interpretation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2737}}` is in [[Ephesians 4:9]], which poses a rhetorical question: "(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the **lower** parts of the earth?" In this verse, the word is used to describe the destination of Christ's descent, contrasting it with His ascension. The phrase "the **lower** parts of the earth" identifies a specific realm, suggesting a location beneath the surface of the world.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of `{{G2737}}`:
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): This verb describes the action of going down. It is used in parallel with ascension to emphasize Christ's movement, as in the statement that no one has ascended to heaven but he that **came down** from heaven [[John 3:13]].
* `{{G305}}` **anabaínō** (to go up): As the direct opposite of descending, this word is essential to the argument in [[Ephesians 4:9]]. It refers to Christ's exaltation and is also seen when Jesus speaks of his impending return to the Father [[John 20:17]].
* `{{G1093}}` **gē** (earth): This word defines the realm that contains the "lower parts." It can refer to the physical globe or a specific region, and is often contrasted with heaven, as in the prayer, "Thy will be done in **earth**, as it is in heaven" [[Matthew 6:10]].
* `{{G3313}}` **méros** (a division or share): This noun is modified by **katṓteros** to mean "lower **parts**." It signifies a specific section or allotment, such as having a **part** in the first resurrection [[Revelation 20:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2737}}` is concentrated in its single use, highlighting key doctrines:
* **The Scope of Christ's Work:** The use of **lower** establishes the full extent of Christ's journey. His work was not confined to the earth's surface but extended to the lowest depths before his ultimate exaltation.
* **A Prerequisite for Ascension:** The verse explicitly links the descent to the ascension, presenting the former as a necessary precursor to the latter. The question "what is it **but** that he also descended first?" [[Ephesians 4:9]] frames the descent as an integral part of his redemptive mission.
* **Defining a Subterranean Realm:** By describing the "parts of the earth" as **lower**, the word distinguishes this place from the world of the living. This supports the concept of a distinct realm, identified in the base definition as Hades, to which Christ descended.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2737}}` is a rare but impactful word. Its solitary use in [[Ephesians 4:9]] is pivotal to understanding the biblical teaching on Christ's descent. By signifying a **lower** place, **katṓteros** defines the incredible scope of Christ’s ministry, from the inferior parts of the earth to his glorious ascension, demonstrating the totality of his victory.
TRV