### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb παρασκευάζω (paraskeuázō), Strong's `{{G3903}}`, is a compound word derived from the preposition παρά (para), meaning "beside" or "alongside," and a derivative of σκεῦος (skeuos), meaning "a vessel" or "implement." The base verb σκευάζω (skeuazō) signifies "to prepare" or "to equip." Thus, the compound παρασκευάζω inherently conveys the sense of "to furnish alongside," "to get ready," or "to make preparations." It implies a proactive and often diligent act of readying oneself or something for a specific future event, task, or encounter. The "para" prefix can intensify the readiness, suggesting a thorough or immediate preparation, or denote preparation *for* something that is imminent or at hand. Its semantic range covers both physical and logistical arrangements, as well as a readiness of disposition or state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term παρασκευάζω appears in various contexts within the New Testament, primarily emphasizing the act of making ready for a particular purpose:
* **Preparation for the Sabbath/Passover:** This is the most prominent usage, appearing six times in the Gospels to refer to the "Day of Preparation" (ἡ παρασκευή).
* In [[Matthew 27:62]], [[Mark 15:42]], [[Luke 23:54]], and [[John 19:14]], [[John 19:31]], [[John 19:42]], the term designates the day preceding the Sabbath, specifically the day on which Jesus was crucified and buried. This highlights the Jewish custom of preparing food, performing necessary tasks, and making arrangements before the Sabbath began at sunset, ensuring that no work was done on the holy day. The Gospel writers use this term to situate the Passion events within the precise temporal framework of Jewish religious observance, underscoring the urgency of Jesus' burial before the Sabbath commenced.
* **Preparation for a Meal:** In [[Acts 10:10]], the verb describes Peter's household "making ready" a meal. This is a straightforward, practical application of the word, indicating the physical preparation of food.
* **Preparation for a Financial Offering:** In [[2 Corinthians 9:2]] and [[2 Corinthians 9:3]], Paul uses παρασκευάζω in the context of the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. He commends the Corinthians for their previous readiness to give and urges them to ensure their offering is "prepared" (made ready) so that their generosity is evident and not merely a last-minute compulsion. Here, the word implies not just the gathering of funds but also a readiness of heart and intention to give.
* **Preparation for Battle:** In [[1 Corinthians 14:8]], Paul uses a rhetorical question: "For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare himself for battle?" This illustrates the necessity of clear communication and readiness for a critical engagement, drawing on the military context where preparation is paramount for survival and success. The implication is that spiritual life also requires clarity and readiness.
Across these contexts, παρασκευάζω consistently denotes a deliberate, purposeful act of readying, whether it be for a sacred day, a practical necessity, an act of charity, or a conflict.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic overlap with παρασκευάζω, yet each carries distinct nuances:
* **ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazō - `{{G2090}}`):** This is a very close synonym, also meaning "to prepare" or "to make ready." While often interchangeable, hetoimazō can sometimes imply a more general or completed state of readiness, whereas paraskeuázō often emphasizes the *process* of getting ready or the active "furnishing" for a specific purpose, sometimes with an added sense of urgency or thoroughness for an impending event. For example, hetoimazō is used for preparing the way for the Lord, or preparing a place.
* **κατασκευάζω (kataskeuazō - `{{G2680}}`):** Meaning "to build," "to construct," or "to prepare thoroughly." This word often suggests a more foundational or comprehensive preparation, involving the creation or establishment of something from the ground up, such as building a house or preparing an altar.
* **σκευή (skeuē - `{{G4632}}`):** This noun refers to "equipment" or "baggage," directly related to the root of paraskeuázō, highlighting the material aspect of preparation.
* **σκεῦος (skeuos - `{{G4632}}`):** The foundational noun, meaning "vessel," "implement," or "goods," from which paraskeuázō is derived. It undergirds the concept of having the necessary tools or items for a task.
The concept of "readiness" itself is central to biblical thought, encompassing diligence, foresight, and a proactive posture in anticipation of divine will or future events.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of παρασκευάζω lies in its emphasis on human responsibility and intentionality in response to God's purposes and the demands of faith.
1. **Observance of Sacred Time:** The repeated reference to "the Day of Preparation" for the Sabbath underscores the importance of intentionality in observing holy time. It reflects a divine pattern of ordering creation and human activity, where preparation for rest and worship is itself an act of reverence. The fact that Jesus' death and burial occurred on this day imbues it with profound theological weight, linking the ultimate act of salvation to a day of diligent readiness.
2. **Readiness for Service and Giving:** Paul's use of the term in [[2 Corinthians 9:2-3]] elevates the act of giving from a spontaneous impulse to a prepared, intentional act of worship and fellowship. True generosity is not haphazard but springs from a heart that has "made ready" to share, reflecting a spiritual discipline and a response to God's grace. This preparation is a witness to others and ensures the integrity of the offering.
3. **Spiritual Vigilance and Preparation:** The military metaphor in [[1 Corinthians 14:8]] extends the concept to spiritual life. Just as a soldier must be ready for battle, believers are called to be spiritually prepared for the challenges of faith, for discerning God's will, and for the Lord's return. This implies a need for clear teaching, spiritual discipline, and a constant posture of readiness to respond to divine leading.
4. **Proactive Faith:** In essence, παρασκευάζω calls believers to a proactive, not reactive, faith. It suggests that while God is sovereign, human beings are called to be diligent stewards of their time, resources, and spiritual lives, actively preparing themselves for whatever God calls them to do or endure. This readiness demonstrates trust and obedience.
### Summary
The Greek verb παρασκευάζω (paraskeuázō - `{{G3903}}`) signifies "to make ready," "to prepare," or "to furnish," emphasizing a deliberate and often diligent act of preparation for a specific purpose. Its etymology from "alongside" and "vessel/equipment" highlights the active process of getting things or oneself in order. Biblically, it is most notably used to describe the "Day of Preparation" before the Sabbath, underscoring the Jewish custom of readying for sacred time, and the urgency surrounding Jesus' burial. It also appears in contexts of preparing meals, making ready financial offerings, and preparing for battle, each instance conveying a sense of intentional, purposeful readiness. Theologically, παρασκευάζω underscores human responsibility in responding to divine commands and purposes, calling believers to a proactive posture of spiritual vigilance, diligent service, and intentional generosity, reflecting a prepared heart ready to honor God.
TRV