ἑτοιμάζω

I make ready, prepare

Definition

The verb ἑτοιμάζω means 'to make ready, prepare, or get something ready.' In the New Testament, it is used in both literal and spiritual senses. Literally, it refers to preparing a meal (Matthew 22:4) or a room (Mark 14:15). Spiritually, it often describes God's sovereign preparation, such as preparing the kingdom for the blessed (Matthew 25:34) or preparing a place for believers (John 14:2-3). It also describes human preparation of one's heart or way, as in the call to 'prepare the way of the Lord' from Isaiah 40:3, quoted in the Gospels (Matthew 3:3, Mark 1:3).

Biblical Usage

ἑτοιμάζω appears 39 times across the New Testament, with significant usage in the Gospels (especially Matthew), John, and Revelation. It is used in diverse contexts: for practical preparations (Luke 1:17, 1 Corinthians 2:9), for eschatological preparation by God (Matthew 25:34, 41; Revelation 21:2), and for the moral/spiritual preparation of people (Luke 1:17, 1 Corinthians 2:9). A key pattern is its use in passive voice to emphasize divine agency, such as things 'prepared' by God from the foundation of the world.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ἕτοιμος (hetoimos), meaning 'ready' or 'prepared.' The verb form adds the -άζω suffix, which typically forms verbs meaning 'to make' or 'to do' something. Thus, ἑτοιμάζω literally means 'to make ready.' The root concept of readiness is central, connecting to preparedness for action or an event.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights both divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God is the primary preparer, having prepared salvation, a kingdom, and eternal destiny for His people (Matthew 25:34; John 14:2-3; 1 Corinthians 2:9). Simultaneously, humans are called to prepare themselves spiritually—to prepare the way for the Lord in repentance (Matthew 3:3) and to be ready for His return. This duality enriches our understanding of God's plan and our role within it.

In the Greco-Roman world, preparation was a key part of hospitality and religious ritual. Preparing a feast or a guest room was a serious social duty. The call to 'prepare the way of the Lord' (Matthew 3:3) would evoke the image of a royal procession, where roads were repaired and cleared ahead of a king's arrival. This cultural backdrop emphasizes the urgency, honor, and effort associated with the concept.

καταρτίζω (katartizō, G2675) — to mend, restore, or equip, focusing on making something complete or fit for use. παρασκευάζω (paraskeuazō, G3903) — to prepare or make ready, often with a sense of getting things in order, and is the source of the word 'Friday' (Paraskeue) as the day of preparation for Sabbath.

Word Details

Scripture References