Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἀποστεγάζω, as it is a specific Greek term used in the New Testament context. However, the concept of uncovering or removing a covering can be related to Hebrew terms that involve opening or revealing, such as גָּלָה (galah, Strong's Hebrew 1540), which means "to uncover" or "to reveal."

Usage: The term ἀποστεγάζω is used in the context of removing a roof or covering, typically to gain access to the interior of a building. It is a verb that appears in the New Testament in the context of a specific narrative.

Context: The Greek verb ἀποστεγάζω appears in the New Testament in the Gospel of Mark, specifically in Mark 2:4. This passage describes the actions of individuals who, unable to reach Jesus due to the crowd, remove the roof above Him to lower a paralytic man for healing. The act of "unroofing" or "removing the covering" is a vivid illustration of the determination and faith of those seeking Jesus' miraculous intervention.

In Mark 2:4 (BSB), the text reads: "Since they were unable to get to Jesus through the crowd, they uncovered the roof above Him, made an opening, and lowered the paralytic on his mat."

This narrative highlights the physical and metaphorical barriers that can exist between individuals and Christ, and the lengths to which people will go to overcome these obstacles. The act of ἀποστεγάζω symbolizes the removal of barriers to access divine grace and healing.

The cultural context of the time involved houses with flat roofs made of beams covered with branches and clay. The process of ἀποστεγάζω would have involved significant effort and determination, reflecting the urgency and faith of those involved.