ἀνανήφω (ananēphō) is a Greek verb that translates to “to recover oneself” or “to come to one’s senses.” It derives from the prefix ἀνα- (ana-), meaning “up” or “again,” and νήφω (nēphō), meaning “to be sober” or “to be clear-headed.” The term generally has the following meanings:

1. Recovery of Sense: The act of regaining composure or clarity of mind, often after a state of confusion or inebriation.
2. Sober Reflection: The process of coming to one’s senses or realizing the true nature of a situation.

ἀνανήφω implies a return to mental clarity or self-control after a period of distraction or confusion.

Detailed Overview with Concordances

1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):

• BDAG provides a detailed definition of ἀνανήφω as “to come to oneself” or “to recover one’s senses.” It highlights its use in the New Testament, specifically in the context of someone regaining mental clarity or soberness. This lexicon emphasizes the term’s application in situations where a person regains awareness or composure.

2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):

• LSJ translates ἀνανήφω as “to come to oneself” or “to recover one’s senses.” It notes the term’s usage in classical Greek literature to describe a state of returning to sobriety or mental clarity. The lexicon provides examples of how this term is employed to convey the idea of regaining one’s senses.

3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer defines ἀνανήφω as “to come to oneself” or “to regain one’s senses.” It explains that the term is used to indicate a return to sobriety or rational thinking after a state of drunkenness or confusion. The lexicon underscores the idea of recovering mental clarity.

4. Strong’s Concordance:

• Strong’s Concordance identifies ἀνανήφω as G366 and translates it as “to come to oneself” or “to recover one’s senses.” It highlights its New Testament usage, particularly in contexts where a person is regaining composure or clarity.

Summary:
ἀνανήφω (ananēphō) means “to recover oneself” or “to come to one’s senses.” According to BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, the term denotes the process of regaining mental clarity or sobriety after a state of confusion or inebriation. In classical and biblical contexts, it often refers to someone returning to their senses and regaining composure.