Response:

Thanks for writing.

The Greek word katastole is formed by two other Greek words, kata and stole. The Greek word stole, according to Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon (published 1901), has the following definitions: "1. an equipment; 2. an equipment in clothes, clothing; specifically a loose outer garment for men which extended to the feet". "The Greek prefix "kata" has numerous meanings, but the first listed by Thayer is "down from, down" Therefore, the literal meaning of katastole would be "a loose outer garment that comes down." Thayer's definition of katastole is "a lowering, a letting down; a garment let down."

It is not the English language that proves the meaning of the word, it is the Greek language from which the English was translated.

Hope this helps. May the Lord bless you.

By Dr Mark Montgomery Ambassador Baptist Church 1926 Babcock Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15209 (412)477-3210