The Greek verb ἀνασκευάζω (anaskeuazō) means “to prepare” or “to make ready.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “again,” and the root σκηνοποιέω (skēnopoieō), which relates to the preparation or arrangement of something. The term generally refers to the act of making something ready or preparing it for use, often in a thorough or comprehensive manner.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀνασκευάζω (G384) is used in the New Testament with the meaning of preparing or making something ready. For instance, in 2 Timothy 4:11, it is used in the context of Paul asking for certain items to be brought to him, which implies the preparation or readiness of these items for use.

The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon further elaborates on ἀνασκευάζω by noting that it can also mean to arrange or equip something thoroughly. BDAG highlights that the term is used to describe the process of preparing something in a way that makes it fully ready or functional, often involving a thorough or detailed preparation.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon supports this understanding by describing ἀνασκευάζω as relating to the act of preparing or arranging something. The lexicon notes that it can imply a comprehensive preparation, making something fully ready or fit for a specific purpose.

In summary, ἀνασκευάζω primarily means “to prepare” or “to make ready,” reflecting a thorough or detailed process of preparation. This meaning is consistent across Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in biblical and classical Greek literature.