ἀπαρασκεύαστος (aparaskeuastos)
aparaskeuastos
unprepared
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective aparaskeuastos describes a state of being unprepared or lacking necessary arrangements. It is formed from a negative prefix combined with a root meaning "to prepare," creating a simple but clear picture of something that has not been readied for its intended purpose.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 9:4. Paul uses it to describe a potential embarrassment if certain Macedonian believers were to visit and find the Corinthian church’s collection unready. The term highlights the practical importance of following through on commitments, as being "unprepared" would undermine the trust built between the communities.
Its rarity in Scripture makes its single usage significant. Paul chooses this specific word to emphasize the tangible nature of Christian generosity—it is not just an intention but a concrete action that requires planning and diligence. The lack of preparation here is not merely an oversight but a failure to honor a promise made in faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word aparaskeuastos paints a clear picture of being unready or lacking necessary arrangements. In 2 Corinthians 9:4, Paul uses it to warn against leaving a promise unfulfilled. This reminds us that Christian generosity is not just about good intentions but requires practical planning and follow-through.
When we make commitments in faith, our actions should reflect the trust others have placed in us. Being prepared shows respect for those who depend on us and honors the community’s shared goals. It is a tangible way to live out love through diligence and care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unprepared,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀπαρασκευάστους,1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 9:4
lest by any means, if anyone from Macedonia comes there with me and finds you unprepared, we (to say nothing of you) would be disappointed in this confident boasting.
Paul uses this rare term to highlight how unpreparedness can damage trust and cause disappointment in the context of a promised offering.