The Greek verb ἀναπτύσσω (anaptussō) means “to unfold” or “to spread out.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “again,” and the root πτύσσω (ptussō), which relates to folding or spreading. The term generally refers to the act of unfolding or spreading something out, often used in the context of physical objects like cloths or scrolls.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀναπτύσσω (G380) is used in the New Testament to describe the action of unfolding or spreading out. For example, in Matthew 27:59, it is used to describe how Joseph of Arimathea “took the body” of Jesus and “wrapped it” in a clean linen cloth, indicating the process of unfolding or spreading out the cloth.

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The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon further elaborates on this term by noting that ἀναπτύσσω can also imply the broader sense of “unfolding” or “laying out,” which is significant in both literal and figurative contexts. BDAG emphasizes its use in the context of preparing or arranging something by spreading it out.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon adds that ἀναπτύσσω is used in classical Greek to describe the physical action of unfolding or spreading, and it may also carry metaphorical meanings in different contexts, such as spreading out or revealing something that was previously covered or hidden.

In summary, ἀναπτύσσω primarily refers to the action of unfolding or spreading out, with applications in both physical and metaphorical contexts. This understanding is supported by Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in biblical and classical Greek literature.