Brief Overview of ἀποθήκη (G596)

Meaning and Usage:

• General Definition: The Greek noun ἀποθήκη (apothēkē) generally translates to “a place of deposit” or “a repository.” It refers to a storage place or a place where things are stored or kept, often implying a physical container or storage facility.
• Contextual Usage: The term is used to denote a storage space or a vault, and it can be metaphorically applied to indicate the storage of valuable items or information.

Detailed Overview with Additional Concordances

Etymology and Lexicon References:

1. Strong’s Concordance (G596): Strong’s defines ἀποθήκη as “a storehouse,” “a place where things are laid up or stored.” It specifically denotes a container or a place where items are deposited for safekeeping.
2. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἀποθήκη as “a place of storage” or “a repository.” It emphasizes its use as a physical place for storing items, often with an implication of safekeeping or preservation.
3. BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich): BDAG defines ἀποθήκη as “a storage place,” “a vault,” or “a repository.” It is used to refer to a physical space or container used for storing valuable items or information.
4. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ describes ἀποθήκη as “a place of deposit,” “a storehouse,” or “a repository.” It highlights its function as a storage space for various items, often with a focus on safekeeping and preservation.

Biblical Context:

• Usage in Scripture: In the New Testament, ἀποθήκη is used metaphorically in 2 Timothy 1:12 to refer to a “deposit” of faith or doctrine, implying that the Christian faith or teachings are preserved or entrusted to the believer. The term conveys the idea of something valuable being kept safe or preserved.

In summary, ἀποθήκη (G596) translates to “a place of deposit,” “a repository,” or “a storehouse,” referring to a physical space used for storing or keeping items. Lexicons and biblical references highlight its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts, emphasizing the concept of safekeeping or preservation.