Brief Overview of ἄγκυρα (Strong’s G45: Ankura)

ἄγκυρα (Ankura):
The Greek word “ἄγκυρα” (ankura) translates to “anchor.” It is derived from the root meaning “to bend” or “to curve,” reflecting the shape of an anchor. This term is used in maritime contexts, referring to the device used to moor a vessel to the sea floor and prevent it from drifting.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἄγκυρα (Ankura):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G45), “ἄγκυρα” means “anchor.” The term refers to the tool used in maritime activities to secure a ship by anchoring it to the sea bed. It is used metaphorically in the New Testament to represent hope, stability, and security, as seen in Hebrews 6:19, where hope is described as “an anchor for the soul.”

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἄγκυρα” as “an anchor.” Thayer’s explains that the term is used both literally, to describe the maritime device, and figuratively, to signify stability, safety, and reliability. The lexicon highlights the usage of “ἄγκυρα” in Hebrews 6:19, emphasizing the metaphorical application of the term to illustrate the firm and secure nature of hope in God.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἄγκυρα” as “anchor.” Vine’s notes that the term is used to depict the maritime tool designed to hold a ship in place, preventing it from drifting. The dictionary emphasizes the figurative use of “ἄγκυρα” in the New Testament to represent hope, which provides stability and security to believers, as seen in Hebrews 6:19.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “ἄγκυρα” as “anchor.” It defines the term as a device used to secure a ship to the bottom of the sea, preventing it from drifting. The lexicon elaborates on the term’s metaphorical usage in the New Testament, particularly in Hebrews 6:19, where hope is likened to an anchor that provides steadfastness and security.

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan defines “ἄγκυρα” as “anchor.” It highlights the term’s usage in describing the maritime tool used to hold a ship in place. The vocabulary notes that “ἄγκυρα” appears in contexts where stability and security are emphasized, particularly in the figurative sense in the New Testament, symbolizing hope and trust in God.

Summary:
“ἄγκυρα” (ankura) translates to “anchor,” referring to the device used in maritime activities to secure a ship. According to Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, the term signifies both the physical tool and its metaphorical representation of hope, stability, and security. It is particularly noted for its figurative use in Hebrews 6:19, where hope is described as “an anchor for the soul,” illustrating the firm and steadfast nature of hope in the life of a believer.