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G600 · Greek · New Testament
ἀποκαθίστημι
Apokathistēmi
Verb
To Restore / To Reestablish / To Bring Back

Definition

The Greek verb apokathistēmi means to restore to a former state, to reestablish, to bring back, to put back in place. In medical usage, it described healing — restoring a body part to full function. In political usage, it described the restoration of exiles or a kingdom.

Usage & Theological Significance

The disciples' question to the risen Jesus — 'Lord, are you at this time going to restore (apokathistaneis) the kingdom to Israel?' (Acts 1:6) — reflects the deep biblical longing for restoration rooted in this word. Jesus does not rebuke the expectation of restoration but redirects the timing. Acts 3:21 anticipates the apokatastasis (G605) — 'the restoration of all things' — promised by the prophets. Jesus' healings are physical enactments of this word: withered hands restored (apekatestathē, Mark 3:5), sight returned, the lame walking. Each healing was a down payment on the coming total restoration of all creation (Romans 8:19-23).

Key Bible Verses

Mark 3:5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.' He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored (apokathistēmi).
Acts 1:6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, 'Lord, are you at this time going to restore (apokathistaneis) the kingdom to Israel?'
Matthew 17:11 Jesus replied, 'To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore (apokathistēmi) all things.'
Hebrews 13:19 I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored (apokathistēmi) to you soon.
Mark 9:12 Jesus replied, 'To be sure, Elijah does come first, and restores (apokathistēmi) all things.'

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