Original Word: καθάπερ
Part of Speech: Adverb
Transliteration: kathaper
Pronunciation: kath-AH-per
Phonetic Spelling: (kath-ap'-er)
Definition: even as, just as.
Meaning: The word καθάπερ is an adverb meaning "just as" or "even as." It is used to draw a direct comparison or analogy between two elements, emphasizing similarity or equivalence.

Word Origin: A compound of καθά (kathá, meaning "just as") and περ (per, an emphatic particle).

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for καθάπερ, similar comparative expressions can be found in Hebrew, such as כַּאֲשֶׁר (ka'asher, meaning "as" or "just as"). This Hebrew term is used in the Old Testament to draw comparisons or establish conditions, much like καθάπερ in the Greek New Testament.

Usage: καθάπερ is used in the New Testament to establish a parallel or likeness between two situations, actions, or conditions. It often introduces a comparison that highlights the manner or degree to which something is true or applicable.

Context: καθάπερ appears in several New Testament passages, serving as a linguistic tool to draw comparisons that enhance understanding of spiritual truths. It is used to illustrate the nature of relationships, behaviors, and divine principles by comparing them to familiar concepts or actions.

For example, in Romans 5:12, Paul uses καθάπερ to compare the entry of sin into the world through one man with the spread of death to all men: "Therefore, just as (καθάπερ) sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death spread to all men, because all sinned." This comparison underscores the universality of sin and its consequences, setting the stage for the subsequent discussion of redemption through Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 10:6, Paul employs καθάπερ to warn believers by comparing their potential pitfalls to those experienced by the Israelites: "These things took place as examples to keep us from craving evil things as (καθάπερ) they did." Here, the comparison serves as a moral exhortation, urging the Corinthians to learn from past mistakes.

The use of καθάπερ in the New Testament reflects a common rhetorical device in Greek literature, where comparisons are used to clarify, emphasize, or persuade. By drawing parallels between known and unknown, or between past and present, the authors of the New Testament effectively communicate complex theological concepts in relatable terms.

Word Origin
from katha and per
Definition
just as
NASB Translation
even (1), just (11), like (2).

STRONGS NT 2509: καθάπερ

καθάπερ (καθ' ἅπερ), according as, just as, even as, (("καθά marking the comparison, περ (akin to the preposition περί) the latitude of the application"): Romans 9:13 WH text; WH text; also) and 1 Corinthians 10:10 in T Tr WH; 2 Corinthians 3:13, 18 (here WH marginal reading καθώσπερ); 1 Thessalonians 2:11; καθάπερ καί, Romans 4:6; 2 Corinthians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 3:6, 12; 1 Thessalonians 4:5; Hebrews 4:2, and R G in Hebrews 5:4; καθάπερ followed by οὕτω (or οὕτως), Romans 12:4; 1 Corinthians 12:12; 2 Corinthians 8:11. ((From Aristophanes down); the Sept. for כַּאֲשֶׁר, Exodus 7:6, 10.)

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance

even, as well as.

From katha and per; exactly as -- (even, as well) as.

see GREEK katha

see GREEK per

Forms and Transliterations

καθαπερ καθάπερ καθὼς kathaper katháper kathos kathōs kathṑs

Links

Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts