from ἀνά (in the sense of reversal) and a derivative of σκεῦος; properly, to pack up (baggage), i.e. (by implication, and figuratively) to upset:--subvert.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anaskeuázō**, represented by `{{G384}}`, means to **subvert** or upset. Its base definition suggests a reversal, as in packing up baggage to move. Figuratively, it describes the act of unsettling or overturning something. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G384}}` is found in the letter from the Jerusalem Council. The apostles address a serious issue where certain men had gone out from them and caused distress among the believers. These individuals were **subverting** the souls of the Gentile Christians by teaching that they must be circumcised and keep the law to be saved [[Acts 15:24]]. The council clarifies that they gave "no such commandment," identifying this teaching as an unauthorized and destructive upsetting of the true gospel message.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify the meaning of `{{G384}}`:
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (to stir or agitate (roil water):--trouble): This word is used in parallel with **subverting**, indicating that the false teaching caused agitation and turmoil in the souls of the believers [[Acts 15:24]]. This agitation destabilizes faith, making it vulnerable to being overturned.
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ** (breath, i.e. (by implication) spirit... heart (+ -ily), life, mind, soul, + us, + you): This shows what is being targeted by the subversion. The false teaching was not a minor issue but an attack on the very **souls**—the inner life and well-being—of the believers [[Acts 15:24]].
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (something said (including the thought)... word, work): This identifies the instrument of subversion. The damage was done through **words** [[Acts 15:24]], highlighting the power of teaching to either establish or destroy faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G384}}` is significant despite its single appearance. It points to critical principles for the church.
* **The Danger of False Doctrine:** The word describes the active, destructive nature of unauthorized teaching. It doesn't just present an alternative view; it actively works to **upset** and reverse the foundational truth of the gospel received by the believers [[Acts 15:24]].
* **Protecting the Soul:** The target of this subversion is the **soul** `{{G5590}}`. This elevates the defense of correct doctrine from a mere intellectual exercise to a matter of spiritual life and death, protecting believers from being troubled [[Acts 15:24]].
* **The Importance of Authority:** The apostles' firm declaration that they "gave **no** such commandment" `{{G1291}}` establishes a clear line between divinely authorized teaching and human-devised additions that **subvert** the faith [[Acts 15:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G384}}` provides a powerful and specific term for the act of overturning faith through false teaching. Its sole use in [[Acts 15:24]] serves as a permanent warning against those who would trouble believers' souls with unauthorized words. It underscores the profound responsibility to guard the core message of the gospel from any doctrine that would seek to upset or subvert it.
TRV