ἀπαρτισμός

completion, perfection.

Definition

ἀπαρτισμός refers to the state or act of being completed, perfected, or fully finished. It denotes the final result of a process, where something is brought to its intended end or fulfillment. In its single New Testament occurrence in Luke 14:28, it specifically describes the 'completion' or 'finishing' of a building project, illustrating the need for careful planning and sufficient resources to see a work through to its end. While this is its concrete usage, the conceptual root relates to ideas of wholeness and perfection.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 14:28. Jesus uses it in a parable about counting the cost of discipleship, asking, 'For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it (ἀπαρτισμός)?' Here, it is employed in a practical, secular context of construction to illustrate a spiritual principle about commitment and foresight.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἀπαρτίζω (apartizō, G534), meaning 'to complete' or 'to finish.' This verb itself is formed from the preposition ἀπό (apo, often meaning 'from' or 'off') and the root related to ἄρτιος (artios, G739), meaning 'complete,' 'perfect,' or 'fitted.' Thus, ἀπαρτισμός carries the core idea of being brought to a point of complete fitness or finality.

Semantic Range

While used in a practical illustration, the concept of 'completion' or 'perfection' is theologically significant. It connects to the biblical theme of God bringing His plans and His people to completion (e.g., Philippians 1:6). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Luke 14:28 by highlighting that discipleship, like a building project, requires a commitment to see it through to the end, relying on Christ's sufficient resources for its 'completion.'

In the 1st-century context, starting a major construction project like a tower (likely a watchtower in a vineyard or field) was a significant financial undertaking. Failure to complete it would result in public shame and financial ruin. Jesus' audience would have immediately understood the gravity of beginning something without ensuring the ability to finish it, making this a powerful metaphor for the total commitment required to follow Him.

τέλος (telos, G5056) — emphasizes the end, goal, or termination point of an action. τελείωσις (teleiōsis, G5058) — focuses more on the process or state of being made perfect or mature, often in a moral or spiritual sense.

Word Details

Scripture References