### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun *katártisis* (`{{G2676}}`) is derived from the verb *katartízō* (`{{G2675}}`), which carries the primary meaning of mending, repairing, restoring, fitting together, or making complete and perfect for a specific purpose. As a noun, *katártisis* therefore denotes the state or process of being thoroughly equipped, brought into proper order, or perfected. It implies a comprehensive preparation or restoration to functionality. The "subjectively" aspect of its base definition suggests an internal or inherent state of being made complete. Its semantic range includes completeness, restoration, thorough equipping, training, and perfection in the sense of being fully fitted and prepared.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *katártisis* (`{{G2676}}`) appears only once in the New Testament:
* **[[2 Corinthians 13:9]]**: "For we rejoice when you are weak, but you are strong; and this we also pray, your *katártisis*." (καὶ τοῦτο δὲ εὐχόμεθα, τὴν ὑμῶν κατάρτισιν).
* In this pivotal verse, Paul expresses his earnest prayer for the Corinthian believers. The context is one of Paul preparing for a third visit to Corinth, during which he intends to address ongoing issues of disunity, immorality, and challenges to his apostolic authority. His desire for their *katártisis* signifies a longing for their full restoration to spiritual health, unity, and proper Christian conduct. It is a prayer for them to be mended, set right, and brought to a state of complete readiness and maturity in Christ, so that they might function as a healthy, unified body. It implies a process of correction and spiritual growth that leads to their being fully equipped for God's purposes, rather than a static state of absolute flawlessness.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **καταρτίζω (katartízō)** `{{G2675}}`: The root verb, essential for understanding *katártisis*. It is used for mending fishing nets ([[Matthew 4:21]], [[Mark 1:19]]), preparing a body ([[Hebrews 10:5]]), restoring a brother caught in sin ([[Galatians 6:1]]), and equipping the saints for ministry ([[Ephesians 4:12]]). The noun *katártisis* represents the *outcome* or *process* of such restorative and equipping work.
* **καταρτισμός (katartismos)** `{{G2677}}`: Another related noun, found in [[Ephesians 4:12]], meaning "equipping" or "furnishing completely." While *katártisis* (`{{G2676}}`) often emphasizes the *state* or *process* of being made complete, *katartismos* (`{{G2677}}`) highlights the *act* of equipping or the *means* by which one is equipped. Both terms underscore the divine intention for believers to be fully functional and prepared.
* **τελειότης (teleiotēs)** `{{G5047}}` / **τελειόω (teleioō)** `{{G5048}}`: These terms convey the idea of "perfection" or "completion," often implying reaching a final state of maturity. While *katártisis* can be translated as "perfection," its nuance is more about being "fitted" or "restored to proper order and function," whereas *teleiotēs* often refers to the ultimate goal or full maturity. *Katártisis* can be seen as the necessary process that leads towards *teleiotēs*.
### Theological Significance
The concept of *katártisis* holds profound theological significance for both individual believers and the corporate body of Christ:
* **Divine Initiative and Purpose:** It underscores God's active work in the lives of His people, desiring them to be fully equipped and prepared for His service and glory. This "perfection" is not self-effort but a divine work of restoration and enablement.
* **Spiritual Maturity and Wholeness:** For the individual, *katártisis* speaks to the process of spiritual growth, moving from brokenness or immaturity towards a state of spiritual health, integrity, and readiness to fulfill God's calling. It implies being made fit for purpose.
* **Ecclesial Health and Unity:** In the context of [[2 Corinthians 13:9]], *katártisis* is crucial for the church. It signifies the restoration of unity, purity, and proper order within the community, essential for its effective witness and function as the Body of Christ.
* **Pastoral Responsibility:** Paul's prayer exemplifies the heart of pastoral ministry: to see believers and churches brought to a state of wholeness, equipped for ministry, and living in accordance with God's will.
### Summary
*Katártisis* (`{{G2676}}`) denotes the thorough equipping, restoration, or bringing to a state of completeness and fitness for purpose. Derived from *katartízō* (`{{G2675}}`), which means to mend, prepare, or restore, this noun emphasizes the process or state of being made whole and functional. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[2 Corinthians 13:9]] reveals Paul's fervent prayer for the Corinthian church to be brought into proper order, spiritual maturity, and unity, thereby reflecting God's design for His people. It is closely related to *katartismos* (`{{G2677}}`), which focuses on the act of equipping, and stands as a vital concept for understanding the divine intention for believers to be thoroughly prepared and restored for effective service and a life of holiness. It signifies a dynamic work of God in bringing His church to a state of spiritual health and readiness.
TRV