The Greek verb ἀναστατόω (anastatoō) means “to disturb” or “to upheave.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “again,” and the root στάσις (stasis), meaning “standing” or “position.” The term generally refers to causing a disturbance or creating an upheaval, often resulting in significant disruption or disorder.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀναστατόω (G387) is used to describe the act of disturbing or creating turmoil. For example, in Acts 17:6, it is used to describe how Paul and Silas caused an uproar or disturbance in Thessalonica. The term conveys a sense of significant disruption or upheaval caused by the actions of individuals or events.

The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon provides further insight by noting that ἀναστατόω implies causing a major disturbance or creating significant agitation. BDAG highlights that the term is used in contexts where there is a substantial disruption or upheaval, often in a social or political setting.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon supports this understanding by describing ἀναστατόω as relating to the action of causing a disturbance or upheaval. The lexicon emphasizes its use in classical Greek to denote significant agitation or disorder, reflecting a strong impact on the state of affairs.

In summary, ἀναστατόω primarily means “to disturb” or “to upheave,” indicating a significant disruption or turmoil. This meaning is consistent across Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in both biblical and classical Greek literature.