Lexical Summary katastréniaó: To grow wanton, to become indulgent Original Word: καταστρηνιάω Strong's Exhaustive Concordance to be ruled by a physical desireFrom kata and streniao; to become voluptuous against -- begin to wax wanton against. see GREEK kata see GREEK streniao NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom kata and stréniaó Definition to become wanton against NASB Translation feel sensual desires (1), feel sensual desires in disregard of (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2691: καταστρηνιάωκαταστρηνιάω: 1 aorist subjunctive καταστρηνιάσω ((future 1 Timothy 5:11 Lachmann marginal reading)); (see στρηνιάω); to feel the impulses of sexual desire (A. V. to grow wanton); (Vulg.luxurior): τίνος, to one's loss (A. V. against), 1 Timothy 5:11; Ignatius ad Antioch. c. 11. Topical Lexicon Meaning and Scope of the TermStrong’s Greek 2691 (καταστρηνιάω) expresses the idea of becoming dominated by sensual impulses so that one “kicks over the traces,” refusing previous restraint. In its sole New Testament occurrence (1 Timothy 5:11) the verb is applied to certain younger widows who, after an initial commitment to serve Christ in celibacy, later come under overpowering sexual desire that leads them to abandon that pledge and to seek remarriage. Immediate Context in 1 Timothy 5 Paul’s instructions to Timothy concern the orderly care of widows within the congregation at Ephesus. A defined “list” (Greek: κατάλογος) of widows was to comprise only those who were “at least sixty years old, the wife of one man, well known for good works” (1 Timothy 5:9–10). Paul directs, “But refuse to enroll younger widows. For when their passions draw them away from Christ, they desire to marry” (1 Timothy 5:11). The warning is not against legitimate marriage itself—Paul commends marriage for such widows in verse 14—but against the instability that would arise if youthful desire overtook a vow of single-minded service to the Lord. The verb καταστρηνιάω graphically captures that shift from devotion to self-indulgence. Historical Background: The Church’s Widow List Synagogues had long cared for destitute widows (compare Acts 6:1), and the apostolic church continued the practice. By the middle of the first century a formal roster of widows had emerged, functioning both as a ministry team (prayer, works of mercy, mentoring younger women) and as a group entitled to ongoing material support. Enrolling on this list appears to have involved a pledge of lifelong celibacy and service (see 1 Corinthians 7:34). Younger women were to wait, lest natural drives lead them later to renounce their promise—thereby bringing “judgment on themselves for breaking their first pledge” (1 Timothy 5:12). Theological Implications 1. Sanctity of Vows: Scripture consistently upholds the seriousness of verbal commitments to God (Ecclesiastes 5:4–6; Matthew 5:33–37). καταστρηνιάω illustrates the spiritual peril of yielding to fleshly desire in a way that nullifies prior dedication. 2. Realism about Human Weakness: Paul’s counsel reflects pastoral realism. Younger believers, though sincere, may underestimate the strength of later temptations. The church must balance zeal with prudence. 3. Christ-Centered Devotion: The phrase “against Christ” (1 Timothy 5:11) indicates that any indulgence that dethrones Christ from primary allegiance is spiritually dangerous, whether sexual or otherwise (compare 2 Corinthians 11:2–3). Pastoral and Ministry Applications • Leadership Discernment: Church leaders should weigh age, maturity and circumstance before endorsing lifelong commitments to specialized service. Related Biblical Concepts and Passages • Flesh versus Spirit conflict: Romans 8:5–13; Galatians 5:16–17 Summary καταστρηνιάω depicts the peril of allowing overpowering desires to nullify devotion to Christ. Its solitary New Testament appearance provides a vivid pastoral case study on the necessity of measured commitments, the gravity of vows, and the church’s responsibility to guide believers toward godly stability—whether in celibacy or in honorable marriage. Forms and Transliterations καταστρηνιάσωσι καταστρηνιασωσιν καταστρηνιάσωσιν katastreniasosin katastreniásosin katastrēniasōsin katastrēniásōsinLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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