Brief Overview of πύλη (Strong’s G4439: pulē)

Strong’s G4439: A fundamental term denoting a gate or entrance, particularly a large and often fortified portal. In biblical usage, it carries significant metaphorical weight, often representing spiritual pathways or decisions. Derived from ancient Greek architecture, it emphasizes both physical and metaphorical points of entry, particularly in discussions of salvation and spiritual choices.

U- Unveiling the Word

The word πύλη (pulē) carries profound significance in biblical literature, representing more than just a physical gateway. While its primary meaning refers to a large, often fortified entrance or gate, typically part of a city wall or significant structure, its theological implications run deep. In New Testament usage, particularly in Jesus’ teachings, it becomes a powerful metaphor for spiritual pathways and eternal destinies. The concept of the narrow gate in contrast to the wide gate emerges as a central metaphor for the path to salvation versus the way to destruction. This imagery resonated deeply with early church fathers who saw in it a call to discipleship and the conscious choice to follow Christ’s way. Today, this word continues to challenge believers to consider their spiritual choices and the paths they choose to walk.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πύλη, pulē, /pyˈlē/
• Pronunciation Guide: “poo-LAY” (stress on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)

Etymology:

• Root: πύλ- (pul-) – ancient Greek root meaning “gate”
• Suffix: -η (-ē) – feminine noun ending
• Related to Proto-Indo-European *pel- meaning “fortress” or “fortified structure”

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary entrance or gateway, especially in city walls
• Large, often fortified portal
• Metaphorical entrance or access point
• Strategic point of control or defense

Translation Options:

• Gate – Best captures both literal and metaphorical uses
• Portal – Emphasizes the transitional aspect
• Gateway – Highlights the architectural significance

E – Exploring Similar Words

• θύρα (thura) /ˈθyra/ – refers to a door or entrance, typically smaller than πύλη – See G2374
• εἴσοδος (eisodos) /ˈisodos/ – emphasizes the act of entering rather than the structure – See G1529
• πυλών (pulōn) /pyˈlōn/ – specifically refers to a gateway or vestibule – See G4440

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features (Noun):

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First

Examples:

• Nominative: πύλη (pulē) – the gate
• Genitive: πύλης (pulēs) – of the gate
• Dative: πύλῃ (pulē) – to/for the gate
• Accusative: πύλην (pulēn) – the gate (as direct object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

The major lexicons present a comprehensive view of πύλη. BDAG emphasizes its architectural significance while noting its metaphorical usage in Jesus’ teachings. Thayer’s highlights its connection to ancient city fortifications. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples. Vine’s emphasizes the theological significance, particularly in Matthew’s gospel. Strong’s connects it to passages about salvation. LEH traces its Septuagint usage, while Moulton and Milligan provide papyrological evidence of its common usage in everyday life.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“Enter through the narrow [πύλη] gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” Matthew 7:13

Additional References:
Matthew 7:14, Luke 7:12, Acts 3:10, Acts 9:24, Acts 12:10, Hebrews 13:12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The concept of πύλη serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial decisions we face in our spiritual journey. Jesus uses this word to present a stark choice between two paths: one leading to life and another to destruction. This word proclaims the good news by emphasizing that while the gate to salvation may be narrow, it is open to all who choose to enter through faith in Christ. It reminds us that salvation is both a divine gift and a human choice.

D – Did You Know?

1. In ancient cities, gates were not just entrances but centers of civic life where judges would hear cases and merchants would conduct business.
2. The term πύλη appears in ancient medical texts referring to the “portal vein” of the liver, showing its broader application beyond architecture.
3. Early Christian art often depicted Jesus as the gate itself, drawing on His words “I am the door” (though using θύρα rather than πύλη).

Strong’s G4439: A gate or entrance, particularly a large portal in city walls or significant structures. In biblical usage, it carries profound metaphorical significance, especially in Jesus’ teachings about salvation and spiritual choices. The term emphasizes both physical security and spiritual decision points in early Christian theology.

Part of speech: Noun (feminine)

Tags: gate, entrance, portal, salvation, choice, metaphor, architecture, city, fortification, spiritual journey, biblical symbolism, decision point​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​