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G2634 · Greek · New Testament
κατακυριεύω
Katakurieuō
Verb
To Lord Over; To Dominate; To Have Mastery Over

Definition

The Greek katakurieuō (G2634) means to lord it over, to exercise dominion, or to master completely. The prefix kata intensifies: it is domineering lordship. Jesus uses it in defining the contrast between worldly and servant leadership: 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over (katakurieuō) them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you' (Matthew 20:25-26). Peter uses the same word to warn elders: 'Not lording it over (katakurieuō) those entrusted to you' (1 Peter 5:3).

Usage & Theological Significance

Katakurieuō is the negative pole against which Christian leadership is defined. The world's leadership model is domination — using power to control others, to secure one's position, to extract service from subordinates. Jesus explicitly forbids this in the church: the greatest must be servant of all, following the pattern of the Son of Man who 'came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many' (Matthew 20:28). Peter's echo of this in 1 Peter 5:3 adds: the alternative to katakurieuō is being an example to the flock — servant leadership visible in incarnate life.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 20:25 Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over (katakurieuō) them.'
1 Peter 5:3 Not lording it over (katakurieuō) those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
Mark 10:42 Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them.'
Matthew 20:28 Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Philippians 2:5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.

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