The Greek verb ἀνατίθημι (anathēmi) means “to set up,” “to lay aside,” or “to dedicate.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana), meaning “up” or “again,” and the root τίθημι (tithēmi), meaning “to place” or “to put.” The term can refer to placing something in a particular position, setting something aside for a specific purpose, or dedicating something to a cause or deity.

Detailed Overview

According to Strong’s Concordance, ἀνατίθημι (G394) is used in the New Testament to describe the action of setting something aside or dedicating it. For example, in Luke 2:34, the term is used in the context of setting Jesus “for the fall and rise of many in Israel,” indicating a purposeful placing or dedication of Jesus’ role in salvation history. Similarly, in 1 Timothy 1:20, Paul uses it to describe the act of “handing over” or “delivering” individuals to the consequences of their actions, reflecting a form of dedication or assignment.

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The Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon provides additional context by noting that ἀνατίθημι involves the act of setting something up or dedicating it, often in a formal or religious context. BDAG highlights its use in both literal and metaphorical senses, such as dedicating something to a deity or setting something aside for a specific purpose.

The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon also supports this interpretation, describing ἀνατίθημι as relating to the act of setting up, laying aside, or dedicating something. The lexicon emphasizes its application in contexts where items or concepts are formally placed or dedicated for particular uses.

In summary, ἀνατίθημι primarily means “to set up,” “to lay aside,” or “to dedicate,” reflecting actions of placing or assigning something for a specific purpose. This meaning is consistent across Strong’s Concordance, BDAG, and LSJ, each providing context for its use in both literal and figurative senses in biblical and classical Greek literature.