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G2651 · Greek · New Testament
καταμόνας
katamonas
Adverb
alone, in private, apart

Definition

Alone, privately, apart from the crowd — describing moments of deliberate separation for intimate instruction or encounter. Jesus repeatedly withdrew to be katamonas — modeling the necessity of solitude.

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus' pattern of being katamonas with His disciples reveals a two-tier teaching method: public parables for crowds, private explanation for committed followers. This isn't elitism — it's discipleship. Some truths require relational intimacy to receive. Jesus also withdrew alone to pray (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16), modeling that even the Son of God needed solitude with the Father. In an age of constant connectivity, katamonas is a spiritual discipline.

Key Bible Verses

Mark 4:10 When He was alone [katamonas], those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parables.
Luke 9:18 While He was praying alone [katamonas], the disciples were with Him.
Mark 1:35 Rising very early in the morning, He went out to a desolate place and there He prayed.
Luke 5:16 He would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
Matthew 14:23 After He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray.

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