Brief Overview of σαργάνη (Strong’s G4553: sargane)

Strong’s G4553: A woven basket or hamper, specifically referring to a rope-woven container used for various purposes. In New Testament context, notably used in Paul’s dramatic escape from Damascus, symbolizing both human frailty and divine deliverance in ministry.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σαργάνη refers to a large basket or hamper woven from rope or reeds, primarily used for carrying goods or supplies. Its theological significance emerges powerfully in 2 Corinthians 11:33, where Paul recounts his escape from Damascus. The early church saw this episode as a powerful illustration of how God uses humble means to accomplish His purposes, and how human weakness becomes an opportunity for displaying divine strength. Today, this word reminds us that God often works through seemingly insignificant tools to achieve His magnificent purposes.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σαργάνη, sargane, /sar-gan’-ay/
• Pronunciation Guide: ‘sar’ as in ‘sardine’, ‘gan’ as in ‘gone’, ‘ay’ as in ‘day’
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Origin unclear but likely related to Eastern trading terminology
• Possibly connected to Hebrew שֶׂרֶג (sereg) meaning “to interweave”
• Suffix -άνη (-ane) indicates an instrument or container

D – Defining Meanings

• Primary meaning: A woven basket or hamper made of rope
• Secondary meaning: A large container for carrying goods
• Contextual meaning: An escape device

Translation Options:

• Rope basket – Emphasizes the material construction
• Woven hamper – Focuses on the weaving technique
• Large basket – Emphasizes size and utility

E – Exploring Similar Words

• κόφινος (kophinos) /kof’-ee-nos/ – A smaller basket for food. See G2894
• σπυρίς (spuris) /spoo-rece’/ – A provision basket, used in feeding miracles. See G4711

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a noun:

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

Examples:

• Nominative: σαργάνη
• Genitive: σαργάνης
• Dative: σαργάνῃ
• Accusative: σαργάνην

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG defines σαργάνη as a basket made of ropes or cords. Thayer’s emphasizes its size and strength. LSJ notes its use in commercial contexts. Vine’s connects it specifically to Paul’s escape narrative. Strong’s suggests possible Eastern origins. Moulton and Milligan document its use in everyday commerce and transport.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
2 Corinthians 11:33: “And through a window in a basket [σαργάνῃ] was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands.”

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σαργάνη represents God’s providence in using ordinary means for extraordinary purposes. Paul’s escape in a basket became a testimony to God’s faithfulness and protection. This humble vessel reminds us that the good news of Jesus often advances through seemingly weak and foolish means, demonstrating that God’s power is made perfect in weakness.

D – Did You Know?

1. The type of basket mentioned was commonly used in Damascus for lowering goods from city walls
2. Archaeological findings show similar baskets were large enough to hold an adult
3. Early church art often depicted Paul’s escape in a σαργάνη as a symbol of divine deliverance

Strong’s G4553: A large woven basket or hamper, typically made of rope or reeds, used for carrying goods. Historically significant in commerce and memorably employed in Paul’s escape from Damascus, symbolizing divine providence through humble means.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: paul-damascus, escape, divine-providence, baskets, persecution, acts-narrative, paul-testimony, divine-protection, weakness, gods-strength​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​