Brief Overview of ἐξαρτίζω (Strong’s G1822: exartizō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is vital for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insight into ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἐξαρτίζω (exartizō) is particularly significant because it carries meanings related to equipping, completing, or preparing something fully. This word appears in contexts that emphasize readiness, sufficiency, and completeness, providing depth to passages where it is used, particularly in how believers or objects are prepared for a specific purpose or task.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐξαρτίζω, transliterated as exartizō [eks-ar-TID-zo]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐξ (ex, “out of”) and the verb ἀρτίζω (artizō, “to fit or equip”), indicating the action of equipping or preparing thoroughly.
• Part of Speech: Verb.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To equip or furnish completely.
• To make ready or prepare fully.
• To complete or perfect.

Similar Words: καταρτίζω (katartizō) [ka-tar-TID-zo] – Both verbs involve preparation or equipping, but καταρτίζω emphasizes restoration or mending something to its intended state, while ἐξαρτίζω focuses on thorough preparation or equipping for a specific purpose.

Further Insights: The verb ἐξαρτίζω is constructed from the prefix ἐξ- (out of, from) and the verb ἀρτίζω (to equip or fit). This combination suggests not only equipping but doing so comprehensively and fully, ensuring readiness for a task or mission. Understanding its declension and morphological features is important in recognizing its varied uses and forms in biblical texts.

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ἐξαρτίζω as “to complete or equip fully,” especially in contexts where the equipping leads to being prepared for a specific purpose or mission. The emphasis is on a thorough preparation, not leaving anything incomplete.

Thayers: Notes that ἐξαρτίζω means “to furnish perfectly” or “to finish,” often used in the sense of supplying all that is needed for a complete task or to be adequately equipped. It is found in contexts such as preparing a person for every good work.

Vines: Highlights ἐξαρτίζω as a verb implying completion or perfecting. It is often associated with the idea of being adequately prepared or supplied, especially in terms of spiritual or moral readiness.

LSJ: Refers to ἐξαρτίζω as “to fit out,” commonly used in secular Greek to describe preparing or equipping ships, armies, or individuals for specific purposes, stressing thoroughness and readiness.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ἐξαρτίζω as “to complete thoroughly,” indicating a full preparation or furnishing necessary to achieve a goal or task.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Timothy 3:17: “That the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped [ἐξηρτισμένος] for every good work.”
• Acts 21:5: “When our days there were ended, we left and went on our way; and they all, with wives and children, accompanied [ἐξαρτίσαντες] us until we were outside the city; and kneeling down on the beach, we prayed and said farewell to one another.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξαρτίζω (G1822: exartizō)

The Greek word ἐξαρτίζω carries the idea of equipping, preparing, or furnishing something or someone completely. It is used in contexts emphasizing readiness and completeness, particularly in the New Testament where it describes being fully prepared for good works or tasks. In classical literature, it is often applied to the thorough preparation of ships, armies, or individuals for specific missions. Understanding ἐξαρτίζω helps deepen our appreciation of how scripture portrays readiness and completeness in fulfilling God’s purposes.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the concept of being “fully equipped” went beyond mere physical readiness; it often implied a moral or spiritual preparation as well. The use of ἐξαρτίζω in the New Testament highlights this holistic approach, combining both spiritual and practical readiness for service.