Brief Overview of κατάρτισις (Strong’s G2676: katartisis)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it provides deeper insight into the original meanings and contexts of scripture. The Greek word κατάρτισις (katartisis), which can be translated as “preparation,” “completion,” or “perfecting,” is particularly significant in interpreting passages that speak about equipping, mending, and making whole. This noun is tied to the process of spiritual growth, restoration, and preparation in the New Testament, reflecting ancient Greek cultural concepts of wholeness and readiness for purpose.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: κατάρτισις (katartisis) [ka-TAR-ti-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb καταρτίζω (katartizō), meaning “to restore,” “to prepare,” or “to mend,” with the suffix -σις (-sis) indicating a noun of action.
• Part of Speech: Noun. It is a feminine noun and follows the third declension in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• The act of preparing or equipping.
• The process of perfecting, completing, or restoring something to its intended state.
• The concept of mending or putting something in order.

Similar Words

• ἐπίλυσις (epilysis) [e-PI-loo-sis]: Means “interpretation” or “solution.” It carries the idea of resolving or loosening a problem, which differs from the concept of preparation or completion.
• κατασκευή (kataskeuē) [ka-ta-ske-EE]: Means “preparation” or “construction.” It is often used in the context of building or setting something up, emphasizing physical preparation rather than spiritual or moral restoration.
• τελείωσις (teleiosis) [te-LAY-oh-sis]: Means “completion” or “perfection.” It focuses more on the end state of being perfect rather than the process of equipping or restoring.

Morphological Features

• Case, Number, Gender: As a noun, κατάρτισις follows the third declension. It is feminine in gender and can appear in various cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and numbers (singular and plural).

Declension Table for κατάρτισις

As a noun, κατάρτισις does not conjugate like a verb but declines according to its case, number, and gender. It often appears in its singular form in Biblical texts, especially when discussing the concept of equipping or perfecting something or someone for a specific purpose.

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Lexicon Insights

The Greek word κατάρτισις (katartisis) is primarily used to describe the process of equipping or perfecting. In the New Testament, it appears in contexts that emphasize the preparation and restoration of individuals or groups to fulfill a particular purpose or calling. For example, in 2 Corinthians 13:9, Paul expresses his desire for the “perfection” of the believers, using κατάρτισις to highlight the process of maturing and being made whole in their faith and conduct. This term emphasizes not just a completed state but the ongoing process of growth and restoration that is central to Christian life.

In classical Greek literature, κατάρτισις was often used in medical and philosophical contexts to describe the restoration of health or the preparation of the mind for philosophical inquiry. It implies a bringing into alignment or order, which is a concept that also resonates in Biblical passages where spiritual restoration and preparation are highlighted.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 13:9: “For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong; this we also pray for, that you be made complete (κατάρτισιν).”
• Ephesians 4:12: “For the equipping (καταρτισμὸν) of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.” (While this verse uses a related form, it is conceptually tied to κατάρτισις as it conveys a similar idea of preparation and equipping.)

Classical Usage

Summary of κατάρτισις (G2676)

The Greek word κατάρτισις (katartisis) carries significant weight in Biblical and classical contexts. In the New Testament, it often refers to the process of equipping, maturing, or preparing believers for spiritual growth and service. In classical Greek literature, it is associated with restoration, readiness, and philosophical or physical preparation. Its usage across these contexts highlights a comprehensive process of bringing something or someone to their intended state or function.

Did You Know?

1. κατάρτισις is closely related to the concept of mending or equipping, which is why it appears in contexts involving both physical repair and spiritual restoration.
2. In classical Greek philosophy, κατάρτισις was often associated with preparing the soul or mind for higher learning or moral development.
3. The word κατάρτισις has broad implications, making it useful for describing processes of growth, healing, and preparation in both sacred and secular texts.