κατασκευάζω (kataskeuazō)
kataskeuazō
to prepare
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb kataskeuazō means to prepare or make ready, often with a sense of constructing or equipping something for a specific purpose. It appears ten times in the New Testament, frequently describing the act of building or arranging things so they are fully functional. For instance, it is used in reference to preparing a way, as seen in the Gospels where John the Baptist’s role is described (Matthew 11:10; Luke 7:27).
In the Book of Hebrews, the word carries significant theological weight by describing God as the builder of a house (Hebrews 3:3-4) and detailing the preparation of both the tabernacle and the ark (Hebrews 9:2,6; 11:7). The term implies more than simple assembly; it suggests furnishing or equipping with all necessary elements. In Luke 1:17, it describes preparing a people for the Lord, highlighting a transformative readiness that involves both moral and spiritual alignment.
Its root components suggest a thoroughness in preparation, moving from basic construction to complete equipage. Translators typically render it as "prepare," "make ready," or "build," depending on whether the object is physical, like an ark, or relational, like a people. The consistent theme across its uses is the intentional act of making something fit for its intended use, whether that be a dwelling place or a community awaiting divine action.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kataskeuazō reminds us that God’s work in our lives is intentional and thorough. It does not mean a quick fix or a superficial adjustment, but a careful preparation for a specific purpose. When we read about Noah building the ark or the priests preparing the tabernacle, we see a pattern of obedience that results in safety and worship. This same active preparation applies to our hearts as we wait on the Lord.
John the Baptist used this word to describe his mission: he was sent to prepare a people for the Lord. This suggests that readiness is not passive waiting, but an active turning toward God’s wisdom. Whether you are facing a season of uncertainty or looking forward to a new beginning, you can trust that God is equipping you with everything you need. He builds not just structures, but communities and character, ensuring we are fit for the life He has planned.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- will prepare3×
- when is being prepared1×
- was prepared1×
- prepared.1×
- prepared1×
- is built1×
- he prepared1×
- having built [is]1×
- having built1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κατασκευάσει3×
- κατασκευάσας2×
- κατεσκεύασεν1×
- κατεσκευάσθη1×
- κατεσκευασμένων1×
- κατεσκευασμένον.¶1×
- κατασκευάζεται1×
- κατασκευαζομένης1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:17
He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to prepare a people prepared for the Lord.”
This verse highlights the relational aspect of preparation, showing how God uses His messengers to turn hearts and ready a people for divine encounter.
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Hebrews 3:4
For every house is built by someone; but he who built all things is God.
Here the word emphasizes God’s ultimate authority as the one who built all things, reminding us that every structure has a Creator worthy of honor.
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Hebrews 11:7
By faith Noah, being warned about things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared a ship for the saving of his house, through which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.
Noah’s faith is demonstrated through the physical act of preparing an ark, showing how spiritual conviction leads to practical obedience in dangerous times.