Introduction

Understanding Greek words is fundamental to deepening one’s study of the Bible because it provides a clearer view of the original meanings and nuances that might be lost in translation. The Greek word καταρτισμός (katartismos) is particularly significant as it appears in contexts related to equipping, preparing, and perfecting, especially within the framework of spiritual growth and church ministry. The term is crucial for interpreting New Testament passages that speak about the building up and edification of believers, reflecting ancient Greek ideas of preparation, restoration, and completion.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταρτισμός (katartismos) [ka-tar-tis-MOS]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb καταρτίζω (katartizō), meaning “to restore,” “to equip,” or “to prepare,” with the suffix -μός (-mos) indicating a noun of action.
• Part of Speech: Noun. It is a masculine noun and follows the second declension in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• The act of equipping or preparing.
• The process of perfecting or making complete.
• The act of mending, restoring, or putting in order.

Similar Words

• ἐπόσκεψις (epokespsis) [e-po-KEP-sis]: Means “supervision” or “visitation.” It implies overseeing or inspecting rather than equipping or preparing.
• κατασκευή (kataskeuē) [ka-ta-ske-EE]: Means “preparation” or “construction.” It emphasizes the act of building or setting up rather than restoring or mending.
• πλήρωσις (plērōsis) [plee-RO-sis]: Means “fulfillment” or “completion.” This word focuses more on achieving a full state or bringing something to its fullness, differing from the process-focused meaning of καταρτισμός.

Morphological Features

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

Declension Table for καταρτισμός

As a noun, καταρτισμός 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, emphasizing the concept of equipping or preparing for a particular purpose or mission.

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Lexicon Insights

The Greek word καταρτισμός (katartismos) is used in the New Testament to describe the process of equipping and preparing the saints for ministry and edification. In Ephesians 4:12, it is employed to explain the purpose of spiritual gifts given to the church—to “equip” the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. The term emphasizes a comprehensive preparation or training process that makes someone fully ready for service, highlighting not just the end goal but the ongoing development and growth necessary for effective ministry.

In classical Greek literature, καταρτισμός is less common but appears in contexts that focus on the preparation or mending of something. It carries the idea of putting things in order, fitting them together for a specific purpose, or restoring something to its original condition. This usage reflects its broader application in both physical and metaphorical senses, aligning with the Biblical emphasis on spiritual preparation and maturity.

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

Related Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:12: “For the equipping (καταρτισμὸν) of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταρτισμός (G2677)

The Greek word καταρτισμός (katartismos) is a key term for understanding the concept of equipping, preparation, and perfecting in both New Testament and classical Greek literature. In the Biblical context, it emphasizes the process of spiritual growth, training, and readiness for ministry. In classical texts, it appears in various contexts that involve preparation, whether for intellectual, physical, or spiritual purposes. The word καταρτισμός thus holds significant theological implications, particularly in discussions about the development and maturity of believers.

Did You Know?

1. The word καταρτισμός is often associated with the idea of mending or repairing something to its intended state, making it a powerful metaphor for spiritual restoration.
2. In the Septuagint, καταρτισμός is used in contexts involving preparation for priestly service, reflecting its roots in both sacred and secular preparation.
3. καταρτισμός underscores the dynamic process of equipping rather than merely achieving a static state of readiness, emphasizing ongoing growth and development.