Brief Overview of ἀσφάλεια (G803: Asphaleia)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Asphaleia

Root Words: The term ἀσφάλεια is derived from ἀσφάλεια (asphaleia), meaning “safety” or “security,” and is based on the verb ἀσφαλέω (asphaleō), which means “to make safe” or “to secure.” The root word σφάλεια (sphalēia) relates to stability and firmness.

Primary Meanings:

• Security: The primary meaning of ἀσφάλεια is “security” or “safety,” referring to the state of being protected from danger or harm.
• Certainty: It can also denote “certainty” or “firmness,” suggesting a condition of reliability and assurance.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀσφάλεια as “security” or “safety,” emphasizing its use to describe a state of being protected or free from danger. It is also associated with the idea of certainty or assurance.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀσφάλεια as “security” or “safety,” focusing on the concept of protection from harm and the assurance of stability.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that ἀσφάλεια refers to “safety” or “security,” underscoring its usage to denote a state of being secure and free from risk.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἀσφάλεια as “security” or “safety,” reflecting its application to contexts of protection and stability.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s describes ἀσφάλεια as “security,” highlighting its meaning of being safe from harm or danger.

Bible Verses:

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• 1 Peter 1:5 (KJV): “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
• In this verse, ἀσφάλεια is used to describe the protection and security that believers have through God’s power and faith.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Homer: In Homer’s epics, such as The Iliad and The Odyssey, the term might be used to describe the safety and security provided by the gods or warriors, indicating a state of protection.
• Sophocles: In plays like Antigone, Sophocles might explore themes of security and safety, especially in relation to the protection of cities or individuals.
• Aristotle: Aristotle, in works like Politics, could use terms related to ἀσφάλεια to discuss the security and stability of political systems and the safety of citizens.

4. Summary:

ἀσφάλεια (Asphaleia) primarily means “security” or “safety,” referring to a state of being protected from danger or harm. It also conveys a sense of certainty and firmness. In classic Greek literature, the term is used to denote protection and stability, reflecting its importance in discussions of safety and security. The concept encompasses both physical protection and a broader sense of assurance and reliability.