from κατά; and ὁπλίζω; to equip fully with armor:--arm.
Transliteration:kathoplízō
Pronunciation:kath-op-lid'-zo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb καθοπλίζω (kathoplízō, `{{G2528}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition κατά (katá), which in this context functions as an intensifier indicating completeness or thoroughness, and the verb ὁπλίζω (hoplízō, `{{G3695}}`), meaning "to arm" or "to equip with weapons." Therefore, καθοπλίζω signifies "to arm fully," "to equip completely with armor," or "to be thoroughly prepared for battle." It conveys a sense of comprehensive readiness for conflict, implying that every necessary piece of equipment or defense has been put in place, leaving no part unprotected or unprepared. This word emphasizes a state of being fully prepared for a serious engagement, typically a military or adversarial confrontation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
This powerful verb appears only once in the New Testament, found in [[Luke 11:21]]: "When a strong man, fully armed (καθοπλίζω), guards his own palace, his goods are safe." This verse is part of Jesus' teaching on the "strong man" and the "stronger man," a parable illustrating His authority over demonic forces. The "strong man" is widely understood to represent Satan, who is depicted as "fully armed" (καθοπλίζω) and actively defending his domain and possessions (those held captive by sin and spiritual blindness). The imagery conveys Satan's apparent power, strategic preparedness, and the security with which he maintains his dominion over those he controls. However, Jesus, the "stronger man," demonstrates His superior power by "binding" this fully armed adversary and plundering his house, thereby releasing those held captive. The singular use of καθοπλίζω here powerfully underscores the formidable, yet ultimately conquerable, nature of the spiritual enemy, setting the stage for the profound reality of Christ's victory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of καθοπλίζω includes terms related to weaponry, defense, and military readiness. The root noun is ὅπλον (hóplon, `{{G3696}}`), meaning "weapon," "armor," or "instrument," which forms the basis for the verb ὁπλίζω (hoplízō, `{{G3695}}`), "to arm." A closely related and highly significant concept is πανοπλία (panoplía, `{{G3833}}`), meaning "full armor" or "complete suit of armor," as famously seen in the call to put on the "full armor of God" in [[Ephesians 6:11]] and [[Ephesians 6:13]]. While καθοπλίζω describes the *act* of being fully armed or the *state* of possessing full readiness, πανοπλία refers to the *equipment itself* that constitutes full armor. Other related concepts include spiritual warfare, authority, dominion, and the binding of evil forces. The word implies a state of being prepared for conflict, which resonates with the broader biblical themes of spiritual vigilance and divine empowerment for believers.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of καθοπλίζω in [[Luke 11:21]] carries profound theological weight. It serves to emphasize the reality and formidable nature of the spiritual adversary. By describing Satan as "fully armed," Jesus acknowledges the genuine power, strategic preparedness, and defensive posture with which evil operates in the world. This is not an enemy to be underestimated or taken lightly. However, the very next verse introduces the "stronger man"—Jesus Himself—who is capable of overcoming this "fully armed" foe. Thus, καθοπλίζω highlights the magnitude of Christ's victory over the powers of darkness. It underscores that deliverance from spiritual bondage is not achieved through human strength or partial preparedness, but solely through the superior, binding power of Christ. It sets the stage for understanding the depth of spiritual warfare and the absolute necessity of divine intervention for true liberation, revealing Christ as the ultimate victor over all opposing forces.
### Summary
The Greek verb καθοπλίζω (`{{G2528}}`) precisely conveys the meaning of being "fully armed" or "completely equipped with armor." Its sole appearance in [[Luke 11:21]] is pivotal, portraying Satan as a "strong man" thoroughly prepared to defend his domain and possessions. This vivid imagery underscores the formidable nature of the spiritual enemy, highlighting that evil is not a weak or ill-prepared force. The theological significance of καθοπλίζω lies in magnifying the triumph of Christ; by overcoming a "fully armed" adversary, Jesus demonstrates His unparalleled authority and power to liberate those held captive. Thus, this word powerfully conveys the reality of spiritual conflict and the absolute sufficiency of Christ's victory over all opposing powers.
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