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G392 · Greek · New Testament
ἀνατάσσομαι
anatassōmai
Verb
to arrange, draw up, compile in order

Definition

The verb anatassōmai means to arrange or compile something in an orderly sequence — to compose or write a systematic account. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 1:1, where Luke mentions that "many have undertaken to draw up an account" of the events of Jesus' life.

Usage & Theological Significance

Luke's use of anatassōmai in his prologue is a deliberate literary signal: he is writing history, not myth. He acknowledges that others have already compiled accounts (likely including Mark and Matthew) and situates his own work within a tradition of eyewitness-based narrative. The precision of this word — ordered, compiled, arranged — reflects Luke's commitment to accuracy and investigation (he "carefully investigated everything from the beginning," Luke 1:3). The Gospel is not fabricated legend but historically grounded testimony. This literary carefulness undergirds the Christian conviction that faith is based on real events in real history.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 1:1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us.
Luke 1:3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you.
Acts 1:1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach.
2 Peter 1:16 For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power.
John 20:31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.

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