Brief Overview of ἀποσκευάζω (G643: Aposkēuázō)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Aposkēuázō

Root Words: The term ἀποσκευάζω (aposkēuázō) is composed of the prefix ἀπό (apó), meaning “away from” or “off,” and συσκευάζω (suskēuázō), which means “to prepare” or “to pack.” The combination suggests an action related to preparation or packing, specifically in the context of moving or removing.

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Primary Meanings:

• To prepare for a journey or departure by packing.
• To pack up or prepare belongings for moving.
• To make ready for leaving a place or transitioning from one state to another.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich): BDAG defines ἀποσκευάζω as “to prepare by packing or getting things ready for a journey.” It conveys the notion of preparing for departure or moving by arranging and packing necessary items.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀποσκευάζω as “to pack up” or “to prepare,” emphasizing the preparation of belongings for travel or relocation.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary refers to ἀποσκευάζω as “to pack up,” focusing on the action of making preparations for a journey or transition.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ defines ἀποσκευάζω as “to prepare by packing,” indicating the preparation of goods or belongings for movement or departure.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s describes ἀποσκευάζω as “to prepare,” aligning with the sense of making ready for a journey or transition.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

Xenophon (Anabasis, 4th century BCE): Xenophon uses ἀποσκευάζω to describe the preparations made by soldiers for a journey or movement, including the packing of supplies and equipment.

Plato (Laws, 4th century BCE): In discussing practical matters related to travel or relocation, Plato employs ἀποσκευάζω to refer to the act of preparing by packing necessary items.

Aristotle (Politics, 4th century BCE): Aristotle uses ἀποσκευάζω in the context of preparing for relocations or transitions, highlighting the logistical aspects of packing and organization.

4. Summary:

ἀποσκευάζω (aposkēuázō) means “to prepare by packing” or “to make ready for a journey or relocation.” It involves the act of packing up belongings and making preparations for departure. The term is used in classical Greek literature to describe the preparation process for travel or movement, reflecting the practical aspects of getting ready for transitions. Understanding ἀποσκευάζω provides insight into the logistical preparations required for journeys or relocations in ancient Greek contexts.