Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies provides deep insight into the original meaning of the scriptures. The Greek word θύρα (thýra), translated as “door,” is particularly significant in the New Testament, where it serves as both a literal and metaphorical term. It is crucial for interpreting passages that deal with access, entry, exclusion, and divine opportunity. The word’s usage in biblical texts reflects not only physical barriers or openings but also spiritual or relational thresholds, offering profound implications for understanding ancient Greek culture and early Christian theology.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: θύρα (thýra) [THOO-rah]
- Etymology: The word θύρα likely originates from the root thy-, meaning “to rush” or “to move,” suggesting the concept of a movable entry or exit.
- Part of Speech: Noun, feminine, first declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- A door or entrance.
- A gateway or opening, particularly in a city wall or structure.
- Metaphorically, it represents an opportunity or a means of access.
Similar Words: πύλη (pýlē) [POO-lay] is another Greek word meaning “gate” or “large entrance,” often used to describe the main entrance to a city or fortress. While θύρα generally refers to a door to a building or room, πύλη is more specific to larger and more formal entrances. θύρα can also be compared to πρόθυρον (próthuron) [PRO-thoo-ron], which means “porch” or “vestibule,” the space leading to a θύρα.
Further Insights: θύρα is a first-declension feminine noun in Greek. Here is its declension chart:
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | θύρα | θύραι |
| Genitive | θύρας | θυρῶν |
| Dative | θύρᾳ | θύραις |
| Accusative | θύραν | θύρας |
| Vocative | θύρα | θύραι |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: θύρα is defined as “a door, gate, or entrance.” It is used in various contexts, including the door to a house (Matthew 6:6), the gates of the city (Acts 12:13), and metaphorically as access to salvation or opportunity (John 10:9).
Thayers: θύρα can refer to both literal and figurative doors. It emphasizes that this word conveys the idea of an opening or means of entrance, such as the door to a room or an opportunity presented by God (Colossians 4:3).
Vines: Highlights the metaphorical use of θύρα as “an opportunity,” often used in the New Testament to denote an opening for ministry or divine action (2 Corinthians 2:12).
LSJ: θύρα is commonly translated as “door” or “gate” and is frequently encountered in Classical Greek texts, where it may refer to the doors of a temple, a household, or a city gate.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines θύρα as a “portal or entrance,” applicable to both physical and metaphorical uses, such as doors of buildings, gates, and divine access points.
Related Scripture References
- John 10:9: “I am the door (θύρα); if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”
- Revelation 3:20: “Behold, I stand at the door (θύρα) and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”
- Acts 12:13: “When he knocked at the door (θύρα) of the gate, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer.”
- Colossians 4:3: “Praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door (θύρα) for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Odyssey | “He stood at the door (θύρα) of the palace, looking out over the vast sea.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The Persians gathered at the city gate (θύρα) to negotiate terms of surrender.” |
| Sophocles | Oedipus Rex | “Oedipus entered the house through the central door (θύρα) and called upon the gods.” |
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Septuagint | Genesis 19:6 | “Lot went out to them through the doorway (θύρα) and shut the door behind him.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus 12:7 | “And they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses (θύρα) where they eat it.” |
| Septuagint | Psalms 141:3 | “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door (θύρα) of my lips.” |
Summary of θύρα (G2374)
The Greek word θύρα (thýra) is rich in both literal and metaphorical meanings. It conveys the idea of a door or gateway, offering access or entry, and is frequently used in the New Testament to represent not only physical doors but also spiritual and relational openings. Its usage in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint provides a robust backdrop for understanding its cultural and theological significance. θύρα serves as a vivid image of both opportunities presented by God and barriers that can be opened or shut according to divine or human action.
Did You Know?
In the ancient world, θύρα was not only a common architectural feature but also a potent symbol of access and protection. In Biblical times, doors were often reinforced for security, and the act of closing a θύρα could signify exclusion or divine judgment, while an open θύρα could indicate hospitality, opportunity, or salvation. The New Testament frequently uses this term metaphorically to speak of spiritual opportunities and the openness of God’s invitation to all.
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