Lexical Summary kataneuó: To nod, to signal, to indicate by a gesture Original Word: κατανεύω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance beckon, signalFrom kata and neuo; to nod down (towards), i.e. (by analogy) to make signs to -- beckon. see GREEK kata see GREEK neuo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom kata and neuó Definition to make a sign (by nodding the head) NASB Translation signaled (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2656: κατανεύωκατανεύω: 1 aorist κατένευσα; from Homer down; to nod to, make a sign to: τίνι, followed by τοῦ with aorist infinitive, to indicate to another by a nod or sign what one wishes him to do (A. V. beckoned to ... that they should come, etc.), Luke 5:7. Topical Lexicon Root Idea: A Quiet Call for HelpThe single New Testament use of κατανεύω (Luke 5:7) presents a vivid scene: seasoned fishermen, overwhelmed by a miraculous catch, silently signal their partners. The verb evokes the subtle but urgent nod or beckon that conveys, “Come quickly; we cannot handle this alone.” It is a word of motion without voice, emphasizing urgency while maintaining calm order. Biblical Setting: Galilean Fishing Partnership After a night of fruitless labor, Simon Peter obeys Jesus’ instruction to cast the nets once more. The nets fill to breaking, and “they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them” (Luke 5:7). The silent gesture becomes the hinge between personal obedience and communal blessing. Peter’s boat alone cannot contain the abundance; partnership is required, and the quiet beckon draws fellow laborers into the wonder Jesus has wrought. Nonverbal Communication in Scripture Scripture frequently records gestures that communicate without speech. Aaron lifted his hands in blessing (Leviticus 9:22), Jonathan used arrows and a lad’s movements to warn David (1 Samuel 20:35-40), and the wise men “fell down and worshiped” the newborn King (Matthew 2:11). In each case, actions speak as clearly as words. κατανεύω stands among these silent messages, reminding readers that God often weaves meaning through movements as well as through speech. Historical-Cultural Insights: Maritime Signals First-century fishing on the Sea of Galilee demanded concise, visible signals. Crews managed large drag nets that could stretch a hundred feet or more. Once a shoal was enclosed, noise risked scattering the fish; gestures were therefore standard practice. A nod or beckon would summon the second boat to secure the catch without startling it. Luke’s choice of κατανεύω fits perfectly into this working environment, underscoring his historical accuracy. Theological Themes: Humble Dependence and Shared Labor 1. Dependence on Christ Peter’s competence cannot rival Jesus’ authority. The silent gesture implicitly confesses: “What Christ gives surpasses my capacity.” Christological Reflections The miraculous catch reveals Jesus as Lord over creation. The quiet beckon magnifies His sufficiency: even seasoned professionals are outmatched by His provision. The gesture bridges the gap between divine power and human agency, portraying discipleship as responsive participation in Christ’s work. Related Gestures in Scripture • Upraised eyes (John 17:1) signal communion with the Father. Each gesture, like κατανεύω, carries theological weight, enriching narrative texture and doctrinal depth. Implications for Ministry Today Believers still encounter blessings too large for one vessel. The word reminds congregations and ministries to beckon partners rather than strain alone. Whether in missions, benevolence, or teaching, a humble signal for help acknowledges Christ’s overflowing provision and fosters unity in service. Summary Strong’s Greek 2656 captures a single, significant moment where silent motion meets divine abundance. The beckon of Luke 5:7 embodies dependence on Jesus, the necessity of partnership, and the eloquence of action within the biblical narrative—an enduring call to cooperate in the work that Christ initiates and sustains. Forms and Transliterations κατανίστασθε κατενευσαν κατένευσαν kateneusan katéneusanLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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