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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the deeper meanings and contexts of scripture. The Greek word ἑτοιμασία (hetoimasia) is particularly significant because it conveys the concept of preparedness, readiness, or a state of being made ready. This noun is used metaphorically and literally in the New Testament, emphasizing spiritual and practical preparation. By examining ἑτοιμασία, we gain a richer understanding of the importance of readiness in both spiritual and everyday contexts within ancient Greek culture and the Biblical narrative.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἑτοιμασία (hetoimasia) [heh-toy-mah-SEE-ah]
- Etymology: Derived from the verb ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazō), meaning “to prepare” or “to make ready.”
- Part of Speech: Noun, feminine; first declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Preparation: The act of making ready or being prepared.
- Readiness: A state of being prepared, especially for a significant event or action.
- Foundation: Sometimes used metaphorically to refer to a firm foundation or base upon which something is prepared or built.
Similar Words: ἕτοιμος (hetoimos) [HEH-toy-mos], meaning “ready” or “prepared.” While ἑτοιμασία focuses on the process or state of preparation, ἕτοιμος emphasizes the quality or condition of being ready.
Further Insights: ἑτοιμασία is a feminine noun in the first declension, following a regular pattern for Greek nouns. This word is used primarily in the New Testament to convey both literal and metaphorical preparation. For instance, it is found in contexts discussing spiritual readiness and foundational aspects of one’s faith or life. Its usage indicates a stable and continuous state of preparedness.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: ἑτοιμασία is defined as “preparation” or “readiness.” It highlights its use in the New Testament to convey spiritual readiness or the act of making things ready for a purpose or event.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon defines ἑτοιμασία as “a state of readiness, preparation.” It emphasizes its metaphorical usage in the New Testament, particularly in spiritual contexts such as readiness for the gospel.
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Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s focuses on the spiritual applications of ἑτοιμασία, often relating to the preparation of the heart or mind for receiving the gospel or preparing oneself for spiritual warfare.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon includes classical uses of ἑτοιμασία, noting its application in preparing troops for battle or arranging objects for a specific purpose.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἑτοιμασία as “preparation.” It is used both literally, for preparing a place or event, and figuratively, for spiritual readiness or foundation.
Related Scripture References
- Ephesians 6:15: “And having shod your feet with the preparation (ἑτοιμασία) of the gospel of peace.”
- Luke 1:17: (although not using ἑτοιμασία directly, related to the concept) “To make ready (ἑτοιμάζω) a people prepared for the Lord.”
- Psalm 9:7 (LXX): “But the Lord sits enthroned forever; he has prepared (ἑτοιμασία) his throne for judgment.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “He ensured the readiness (ἑτοιμασία) of the army for battle.” |
| Plato | Laws | “The preparation (ἑτοιμασία) of the soul is essential for understanding higher truths.” |
| Xenophon | Cyropaedia | “The preparation (ἑτοιμασία) of the city was meticulous, ensuring all was ready for the visitors.” |
Septuagint Examples:
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Psalms | Psalm 9:7 (LXX) | “But the Lord sits enthroned forever; he has prepared (ἑτοιμασία) his throne for judgment.” |
| Isaiah | Isaiah 40:3 (LXX) | “Prepare (ἑτοιμασία) the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” |
| 2 Chronicles | 2 Chronicles 20:33 (LXX) | “Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away; for as yet the people had not prepared (ἑτοιμασία) their hearts unto the God of their fathers.” |
Summary of ἑτοιμασία (G2091)
ἑτοιμασία (hetoimasia) is a noun meaning “preparation” or “readiness,” reflecting both a literal and metaphorical state of being prepared. It is used in the New Testament to emphasize spiritual preparedness, especially in the context of the gospel and faith. Understanding ἑτοιμασία enriches our grasp of the Biblical emphasis on being prepared, whether for spiritual battles, receiving the gospel, or standing firm in faith. This term is also deeply rooted in ancient Greek culture, where preparation and readiness were highly valued in both philosophical and practical contexts.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the word ἑτοιμασία (hetoimasia) is not only used in the New Testament but also in classical Greek literature to describe military readiness? The concept of preparation was essential for success in both warfare and philosophy, demonstrating that being prepared was considered a virtue in ancient Greek society.
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