ἀναπληρόω

I fill up, make up, fulfill

Definition

ἀναπληρόω means 'to fill up, complete, or fulfill' in a comprehensive sense. It can refer to filling a physical or metaphorical lack, as when the Philippians' gift 'supplied' Paul's need (Philippians 2:30). It also denotes fulfilling a duty or command, such as 'fulfilling the law of Christ' by bearing one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2). In a prophetic context, it describes the 'fulfillment' of scripture, where actions or events bring a divine pronouncement to its complete realization, as seen in Matthew 13:14.

Biblical Usage

This verb appears six times in the New Testament across Gospels and Epistles. It is used in diverse contexts: fulfilling prophecy (Matthew 13:14), completing a religious duty like a prayer or blessing (1 Corinthians 14:16), supplying a personal need (Philippians 2:30), carrying out a moral or spiritual law (Galatians 6:2), and making up for an absence or lack (1 Corinthians 16:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:16). Its usage shows a pattern of bringing something to its intended or required fullness.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀνά (ana, often 'up' or 'again') and the verb πληρόω (plēroō, 'to fill' or 'fulfill'). The compound suggests intensification or completion—filling something up thoroughly. It is not from ἀν- meaning 'not'; this is a common misconception. The root idea is of bringing to fullness or completion.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects human action with divine fulfillment. In Galatians 6:2, believers 'fulfill' the law of Christ through mutual burden-bearing, highlighting the law's essence as love. Its use for prophetic fulfillment (Matthew 13:14) underscores God's sovereign plan being brought to completion. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by showing that biblical 'fulfillment' is often an active process of completing what is lacking or intended, whether in prophecy, duty, or community need.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'filling up' or 'completing' a measure had legal and social dimensions, such as fulfilling contractual obligations or supplying a deficiency in a communal setting. The idea of 'fulfilling' scripture would resonate in a Jewish context where prophetic texts were seen as awaiting their complete realization. The word implies a standard or measure being met, which was a familiar cultural concept.

πληρόω (plēroō, G4137) — A more general term for filling or fulfilling, often without the intensive or completive force of ἀναπληρόω. τελέω (teleō, G5055) — Focuses on bringing to an end or accomplishing a goal, often with a sense of finality.

Word Details

Scripture References