### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hetoimázō**, represented by `{{G2090}}`, means **to prepare**, **provide**, or **make ready**. It is derived from ἕτοιμος (hétoimos) and appears **41 times** across **40 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe both divine and human acts of preparation, ranging from setting a table for a meal to the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G2090}}` is used in several significant contexts. It frequently describes God's sovereign and eternal preparations, such as the kingdom **prepared** for the blessed from the foundation of the world [[Matthew 25:34]] and the city God has **prepared** for the faithful [[Hebrews 11:16]]. Jesus uses the term to assure his disciples, stating, "I go **to prepare** a place for you" [[John 14:2]]. The term also applies to human responsibility, as seen in the call of John the Baptist to "**Prepare ye** the way of the Lord" [[Matthew 3:3]] and in the actions of the disciples who **made ready** the Passover [[Matthew 26:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the full scope of what it means to prepare:
* `{{G2092}}` **hétoimos** (ready): As the root word, it signifies a state of readiness or fitness. This is seen in the command for believers to be **ready** for the Lord's return [[Luke 12:40]] and for the five virgins who were **ready** for the bridegroom [[Matthew 25:10]].
* `{{G2680}}` **kataskeuázō** (to prepare thoroughly): This word implies a more thorough, external preparation, as compared to the internal fitness suggested by **hetoimázō**. The two are used together in [[Luke 1:17]], which speaks of the need to **make ready** `{{G2090}}` a people **prepared** `{{G2680}}` for the Lord.
* `{{G2117}}` **euthýs** (straight): This term is used alongside `{{G2090}}` in the call to repentance, commanding believers to "**Prepare ye** the way of the Lord, make his paths **straight**" [[Mark 1:3]].
* `{{G4766}}` **strṓnnymi** (furnish, spread): This word describes a specific kind of physical preparation, such as the large upper room that was **furnished** `{{G4766}}` where the disciples were told to **make ready** `{{G2090}}` the Passover [[Luke 22:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2090}}` is profound, highlighting key aspects of God's character and plan.
* **Divine Foreknowledge:** The concept of God having **prepared** a kingdom before the world's foundation [[Matthew 25:34]], as well as a place of judgment [[Matthew 25:41]], underscores His sovereignty and eternal plan.
* **Christ's Salvific Work:** Jesus's promise to **prepare** a place for His followers is a cornerstone of Christian hope, pointing to the future reality of eternal life with Him [[John 14:3]].
* **Call to Human Readiness:** The word serves as a command for spiritual readiness. This includes both the corporate mission to **prepare** the way for the Lord [[Luke 1:76]] and the individual responsibility of a believer to be a sanctified vessel **prepared** for every good work [[2 Timothy 2:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2090}}` is a dynamic word that conveys the critical theme of preparation throughout Scripture. It encompasses God's sovereign work in preparing salvation and judgment from eternity past, the specific mission of Christ to secure a place for His people, and the corresponding call for believers to actively prepare themselves and the world for the Lord. It demonstrates a seamless connection between divine planning and human responsibility.
TRV