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G1940 · Greek · New Testament
ἐπικαθίζω
epikathizō
Verb
to sit upon, be seated on — to take one's place upon something

Definition

Epikathizō combines epi (upon) + kathizō (to sit, sit down). It means to sit upon something — to take a seat on. It appears only once in the NT, in the Triumphal Entry account in Matthew 21:7, where Jesus sits upon the donkey that has been prepared.

Usage & Theological Significance

The single NT use carries extraordinary weight. Matthew 21:7: "They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them [epekathisen]." This is the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9 — the humble King entering His city. The King who sits enthroned in heaven (Psalm 110:1) now epikathizōs on a donkey's back. Enthronement language meets incarnational humility in this single word. The Lord of glory seated on the lowest of beasts — this is the way of the cross, the throne of the kingdom, and the nature of true authority.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 21:7 They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them [epekathisen].
Zechariah 9:9 See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey.
Psalm 110:1 The LORD says to my lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'
Revelation 4:2 At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it.
Matthew 25:31 When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.

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External Resources

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