### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aposkeuázō**, represented by `{{G643}}`, means **to pack up (one's) baggage**. Derived from ἀπό and a derivative of σκεῦος, this term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its single usage specifically refers to the act of preparing for a journey, translated as "we took up our carriages."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G643}}` is in [[Acts 21:15]], where it describes a moment of transition and preparation. The text states, "And after those **days** we **took up our carriages**, and went up to Jerusalem." This action marks the conclusion of a stay and the beginning of a deliberate journey to the significant city of Jerusalem. The phrase "took up our carriages" signifies the gathering of belongings and making ready for travel, a practical step preceding the group's movement toward a pivotal destination.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Acts 21:15]] help clarify the meaning and purpose behind the action of `{{G643}}`:
* `{{G305}}` **anabaínō**: This word means **to go up (literally or figuratively)**. It describes the action that immediately follows packing one's baggage, highlighting the purpose of the preparation: to begin an ascent to Jerusalem [[Acts 21:15]]. It is also used for Jesus's ascension to the Father [[John 20:17]].
* `{{G2250}}` **hēméra**: Defined as **day** or a **period** of time, this word establishes the timeline for the event. The packing occurs "after those **days**" [[Acts 21:15]], indicating a specific and concluding moment before the journey begins.
* `{{G2419}}` **Hierousalḗm**: As the capitol of Palestine, **Jerusalem** is the destination of the journey. The act of packing is undertaken with the express purpose of traveling to this key city, which serves as a center for pivotal events, such as the beginning of the church's witness [[Acts 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
While describing a common physical act, the theological weight of `{{G643}}` comes from its context of a purposeful journey.
* **Preparation for a Divine Purpose:** The act of packing up belongings is the first step in a deliberate journey to Jerusalem, a city central to God's redemptive plan. This journey is part of a larger narrative of fulfilling a mission.
* **Movement Toward a Pivotal Location:** The destination, Jerusalem, is where repentance and remission of sins would be preached beginning from [[Luke 24:47]] and the place prophets are sent [[Matthew 23:37]]. The preparation to travel there underscores the significance of the location.
* **Conscious Transition:** The word marks a clear point of transition, leaving one place to proceed to another. This physical movement reflects a readiness to advance into the next phase of a divine calling, regardless of what it may entail.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G643}}` provides a specific and practical image of **packing up baggage**. Though it appears only once, its placement in the narrative of [[Acts 21:15]] gives it significance beyond the simple act itself. It illustrates the theme of preparation and readiness, showing how a mundane task can be the necessary starting point for a journey of great importance within God's unfolding purpose.
TRV