Quote / Matt 25:46

Meaning of Kolasis

William Barclay 2026-04-18

William Barclay was a Scottish minister, professor, broadcaster, and prolific New Testament commentator. He taught at the University of Glasgow and became widely known for making biblical scholarship accessible to ordinary readers through the Daily Study Bible series.
Biblical ExegesisGod's Judgement – Punitive or Restorative?Kolasis

“The Greek word for punishment here [Matt 25:46] is kolasis, which was not originally an ethical word at all. It originally meant the pruning of trees to make them grow better. I think it is true to say that in all Greek secular literature kolasis is never used of anything but remedial punishment.”

Source: William Barclay, world renowned Greek scholar, translator, author of ‘New Testament Words’…