### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kyróō**, represented by `{{G2964}}`, means to **make authoritative** or to **ratify**. Derived from the same as κύριος, it conveys the idea of establishing something with power and finality. It is a specific term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, making each of its uses particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two biblical occurrences of `{{G2964}}` demonstrate its application in both legal and relational spheres. In Galatians, it is used in an argument about the binding nature of a **covenant** `{{G1242}}`. Even a man's covenant, once it is **confirmed**, cannot be disannulled or have anything added to it [[Galatians 3:15]]. In 2 Corinthians, the apostle Paul **beseeches** `{{G3870}}` the believers to **confirm** their **love** `{{G26}}` for a person, showing that the word also applies to a decisive, authoritative affirmation of a relationship [[2 Corinthians 2:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G2964}}`:
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant): As a contract or testament, this is the object that is **confirmed** in [[Galatians 3:15]]. It refers to a binding agreement that becomes unalterable once ratified.
* `{{G114}}` **athetéō** (disannul): This word, meaning to set aside, reject, or violate, is presented as the direct opposite of what can be done to a **confirmed** covenant [[Galatians 3:15]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This is what the believers are urged to **confirm** in [[2 Corinthians 2:8]]. Its connection to `{{G2964}}` shows that ratification is not just a legal act but a relational one, giving authoritative weight to affection and acceptance.
* `{{G1928}}` **epidiatássomai** (add to): Used alongside "disannul," this term emphasizes the finality of a **confirmed** covenant, which cannot be supplemented or modified [[Galatians 3:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2964}}` lies in its emphasis on finality and authority.
* **The Inviolability of Covenants:** The use of **kyróō** in Galatians establishes a critical principle: a ratified agreement is secure. Once **confirmed**, a covenant is protected from being disannulled `{{G114}}` or altered, highlighting the integrity of established commitments [[Galatians 3:15]].
* **The Ratification of Love:** The term is uniquely applied to relationships in [[2 Corinthians 2:8]]. The command to **confirm** **love** `{{G26}}` elevates this act beyond mere feeling to a decisive, authoritative declaration of acceptance and belonging within the community.
* **Establishing Authority:** At its core, to **confirm** something is to make it authoritative. Whether applied to a legal **covenant** or to interpersonal **love**, the word signifies an action that settles a matter with certainty and makes it binding.
### Summary
In summary, **kyróō** `{{G2964}}` is a precise and powerful term for ratification. Though rare, its usage provides a key understanding of how commitments are made final and authoritative. It is used to describe the unchangeable nature of a **confirmed** covenant [[Galatians 3:15]] as well as the deliberate, decisive act of affirming **love** [[2 Corinthians 2:8]]. The word thus bridges the legal and the relational, showing how both are solidified through an act of authoritative confirmation.
TRV