The Greek word ἀνοικοδομέω (anoikodomeō) is a verb meaning “to build up” or “to restore.” It combines the prefix ἀνό (ana-, meaning “up” or “again”) with ἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō, meaning “to build”). Thus, it refers to the process of constructing or reconstructing something, whether it is a physical structure or a metaphorical concept like spiritual growth or the rebuilding of a community.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀνοικοδομέω (G456) as “to build up again,” with a focus on the concept of restoration or rebuilding. It indicates a process of renewal or construction, typically used in contexts where something previously existing is being repaired or enhanced.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a nuanced definition, describing ἀνοικοδομέω as “to build up” or “to restore.” It is used in both literal and metaphorical senses:

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• Literal Sense: Refers to the physical act of rebuilding or restoring a structure.
• Metaphorical Sense: Used to describe the process of enhancing or nurturing growth, such as spiritual or communal development. For example, it can refer to the strengthening of faith or the growth of a Christian community.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀνοικοδομέω as “to build up” and provides examples from classical Greek literature where the term is used in both literal construction and metaphorical contexts. This includes rebuilding physical structures and restoring the state or health of a person or community.
2. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s highlights that ἀνοικοδομέω means “to build up again” or “to rebuild.” It emphasizes its use in the New Testament, where it often refers to the spiritual or communal rebuilding, such as the growth and edification of the church. For instance, it can signify the process of strengthening believers’ faith or enhancing the growth of a Christian community.

In summary, ἀνοικοδομέω (anoikodomeō) generally means “to build up” or “to restore,” with applications in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Strong’s Concordance offers a basic definition, while BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s provide more comprehensive insights into its use in various contexts, including physical construction and spiritual or communal growth.