Brief Overview of στέγη (Strong’s G4721: stegē)

Strong’s G4721: A feminine noun meaning “roof” or “covering,” derived from στέγω (to cover). In New Testament usage, it appears most notably in the centurion’s statement of humility and faith, expressing his unworthiness to have Jesus enter under his roof.

U- Unveiling the Word

στέγη represents both the physical structure of a roof and carries deep cultural significance regarding hospitality and worthiness. In its New Testament context, it becomes central to one of the most powerful expressions of faith, when the centurion acknowledges his unworthiness to have Jesus under his roof while simultaneously demonstrating remarkable trust in His authority. Early church fathers saw in this word a profound lesson about humility and faith. Today, it continues to teach us about proper reverence for Christ’s presence and authority.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: στέγη, stegē, STEH-gay
• Detailed pronunciation: st (as in stand) + eh (as in bet) + gay (as in day)
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)

Etymology:

• From στέγω (stegō) – to cover
• -η (-ē) suffix – forms feminine nouns
• Indicates covering or protection

D – Defining Meanings

• Roof
• Covering
• Shelter
• House covering
• Building top

For compound words:
Not applicable as this is a simple noun

Translation Options:

• “Roof” – emphasizes structural element
• “Covering” – broader meaning
• “Shelter” – implies protection function

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὄροφος (orophos) [OR-of-os] – roof, ceiling – See G3741
• δῶμα (dōma) [DO-mah] – housetop – See G1430
• σκήνωμα (skēnōma) [SKAY-no-mah] – dwelling – See G4638

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For this noun:

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

Examples:

• Nominative singular: στέγη (roof)
• Genitive singular: στέγης (of a roof)
• Accusative plural: στέγας (roofs)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its basic meaning of covering. Thayer’s notes its protective function. LSJ documents widespread architectural usage. Vine’s highlights its significance in the centurion’s statement. Strong’s connects it to protection. LEH traces Septuagint usage. Moulton and Milligan show its common use in building contracts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
Matthew 8:8: “The centurion answered and said, ‘Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof [στέγη].'”

Additional References:
Luke 7:6, Mark 2:4

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

στέγη reminds us of both human unworthiness and Christ’s gracious presence. It proclaims the good news that although we are unworthy to have the Messiah under our roof, He nonetheless comes to dwell with His people. This word teaches us about proper humility before Christ while encouraging bold faith in His authority and power.

D – Did You Know?

• The word was commonly used in ancient building contracts
• Early Christians used it symbolically for church buildings
• It appears in ancient hospitality customs regarding sacred guests

Strong’s G4721: A feminine noun meaning “roof” or “covering,” derived from στέγω (to cover). In New Testament usage, it appears most notably in the centurion’s statement of humility and faith, expressing his unworthiness to have Jesus enter under his roof.

Part of speech: Noun (feminine)

Tags: roof, covering, shelter, centurion, faith, humility, buildings, architecture, hospitality, house, dwelling, protection, structural-terms, architectural-features, home​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​