Understanding ἀποστεγάζω (apostegazō) Strong’s G648: The Remarkable Act of “Unroofing” that Reveals Persistent Faith and Divine Power

Pronunciation Guide: ah-po-steg-AD-zo

Basic Definition

Strong’s G648: ἀποστεγάζω is a compound verb meaning “to unroof” or “to remove the roof.” In its New Testament context, it specifically describes the determined action of creating an opening in a roof by removing its covering. The word vividly captures both the physical act of dismantling and the purposeful intent behind such an unusual action.

Etymology and Morphology

• Compound verb formed from ἀπό (away from) and στέγη (roof)
• Primary usage in narrative sections
• Koine Greek origin
• Active voice indicates deliberate action
• Found in historical and descriptive contexts

ἀποστεγάζω Morphology:

• ἀποστεγάζω (present active indicative) – I unroof/remove the roof
• ἀποστεγάσαι (aorist active infinitive) – to unroof/to have unroofed
• ἀπεστέγασαν (aorist active indicative) – they unroofed/removed the roof

Origin & History

The word ἀποστεγάζω emerges from the practical vocabulary of construction and architectural modification in ancient Greek. While not frequently attested in classical Greek literature, it appears in various building-related contexts in Hellenistic texts. The compound structure reflects the precise technical language needed to describe specific architectural modifications.

The term gained particular significance in biblical Greek through its memorable usage in Mark’s Gospel. Its appearance in the Septuagint is notably absent, suggesting its specialized nature in describing urban architectural scenarios rather than general construction terminology.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Complete removal of a roof or covering
• Strategic dismantling of a structure from above
• Creating an opening by removing overhead barriers

ἀποστεγάζω Translation Options:

• “Unroof” – Emphasizes the literal removal of roofing material
• “Break up” – Captures the forceful nature of the action (KJV’s choice)
• “Remove the roof” – Provides clarity for modern readers
• “Make an opening” – Focuses on the purposeful result rather than the method

Biblical Usage

The word ἀποστεγάζω appears most notably in Mark 2:4, where it describes the determined actions of four men bringing their paralyzed friend to Jesus. The uniqueness of this usage highlights its significance in depicting extraordinary faith through extraordinary measures. Mark’s choice of this specific technical term suggests his attention to architectural detail and his desire to emphasize the dramatic nature of the scene.

The word’s singular appearance in the New Testament makes it a hapax legomenon, though the concept it represents—removing barriers to reach Jesus—appears thematically throughout Scripture. The precise technical nature of the term suggests Mark’s careful attention to detail in recording this event.

• “When they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof [ἀποστεγάζω] above him” Mark 2:4

Cultural Insights

First-century homes in the Holy Land typically had flat roofs constructed of wooden beams overlaid with thatch and mud. These roofs were accessible by exterior stairs and were often used as additional living space. The description of the roof being removed (ἀποστεγάζω) in Mark 2:4 would have involved breaking through this mud and thatch layer between the beams—a messy but feasible task.

The action would have caused significant disruption and probable expense to the homeowner, highlighting both the determination of the four friends and the remarkable absence of any complaint from the house’s owner, possibly suggesting their own faith in Jesus’s ministry.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀποστεγάζω in Mark’s Gospel reveals profound theological truths about faith, persistence, and access to the Messiah. The physical act of removing a roof becomes a powerful metaphor for removing barriers between humanity and God. Just as the four friends refused to let physical obstacles prevent their access to Jesus, this word challenges believers to consider what “roofs” might need removal in their spiritual lives.

The scene also beautifully illustrates how faith often requires both dramatic action and community effort. The friends’ determination to reach Jesus, literally breaking through barriers, demonstrates that extraordinary faith sometimes requires extraordinary measures.

Personal Application

This word calls us to examine what barriers we might need to “unroof” in our approach to Jesus. Sometimes our traditions, assumptions, or comfortable routines become like roofs that need removing to experience a deeper encounter with Him. The story reminds us that bringing others to Jesus might require innovative, even dramatic solutions.

Just as the four friends were willing to deconstruct a physical barrier to reach Jesus, we might need to dismantle metaphorical roofs in our lives—whether they be pride, fear, or comfortable religious routines—to experience His transforming presence more fully.

Related Words

• καθαιρέω (kathaireo) – to take down/demolish – Similar in describing removal but broader in application See G2507
• λύω (luo) – to loose/destroy – Relates to the concept of dismantling but less specific See G3089
• διορύσσω (diorusso) – to dig through – Used for breaking through walls, similar determined action See G1358
• σκάπτω (skapto) – to dig – Used for general excavation or breaking ground See G4626

Did you Know?

• The word ἀποστεγάζω is still used in modern Greek construction terminology, particularly in renovation projects where roof removal is necessary.
• The specific technical nature of this term suggests Mark might have received his information from an eyewitness who had construction knowledge or understood architectural terminology.
• The action described by ἀποστεγάζω would have required careful planning to avoid injury to those below, suggesting the four friends were likely familiar with construction techniques.

Remember This

ἀποστεγάζω stands as a powerful testament to faith that refuses to be stopped by physical barriers, reminding us that sometimes reaching Jesus requires removing whatever stands in the way, no matter how structurally integral it might seem.