Brief Overview of σειρά (Strong’s G4577: seira)

Strong’s G4577: A cord, chain, or rope used for binding or restraining. In its only New Testament occurrence, it appears in the context of divine judgment, specifically referring to chains of darkness binding fallen angels, emphasizing the reality and severity of spiritual bondage and judgment.

U- Unveiling the Word

σειρά fundamentally denotes a rope or chain used for binding, but in its biblical context carries profound theological significance. In 2 Peter 2:4, it appears in the phrase “chains of darkness,” depicting divine judgment against rebellious angels. Early church fathers often referenced this term when discussing spiritual bondage, divine justice, and the consequences of rebellion against God. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of both God’s justice and His mercy through Christ, who came to set captives free from spiritual bondage.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σειρά, seira, SAY-rah
• Detailed pronunciation: σειρά is pronounced with stress on first syllable: ‘SAY’ as in say, ‘rah’ as in raw
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• σειρ- (seir-): Root meaning “to bind or fasten”
• -ά (-a): Feminine noun ending

D – Defining Meanings

• A rope or cord
• A chain for binding
• A restraining device

For compound words:
Not applicable as σειρά is a primary noun

Translation Options:

• “Chain” – Emphasizes the binding nature
• “Rope” – Highlights the physical material
• “Cord” – Suggests flexibility while maintaining binding function

E – Exploring Similar Words

• δεσμός (desmos, des-MOSS) – bond, fetter See G1199
• ἅλυσις (halusis, HAL-oo-sis) – chain, specifically metal See G254
• σχοινίον (schoinion, skoy-NEE-on) – rope, cord See G4979

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: 1st

Examples:
Singular: σειρά (nom), σειρᾶς (gen), σειρᾷ (dat), σειράν (acc)
Plural: σειραί (nom), σειρῶν (gen), σειραῖς (dat), σειράς (acc)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes σειρά’s physical meaning as a rope or chain while noting its metaphorical use in judgment contexts. Thayer’s highlights its connection to binding and restraint. LSJ provides evidence of its use in various contexts from military to maritime applications. Vine’s notes its singular appearance in the New Testament with significant theological implications. Strong’s connects it to the concept of binding or drawing. Moulton-Milligan documents its common use in practical contexts in papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;” 2 Peter 2:4

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σειρά powerfully illustrates divine justice while pointing to the liberating power of the gospel. While it appears in Scripture describing judgment, it reminds us of Christ who came to proclaim liberty to the captives. The chains that bind rebels against God contrast sharply with the freedom found in submission to His lordship. This word ultimately magnifies Jesus’ role as the chain-breaker, offering liberation from spiritual bondage through His atoning work.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word evolved in modern Greek to refer to TV series or sequential arrangements.
2. Ancient maritime texts used σειρά extensively for ship rigging terminology.
3. Early church writers used this term metaphorically to describe the binding nature of sin.

Strong’s G4577: A cord, chain, or rope used for binding or restraining. In its only New Testament occurrence, it appears in the context of divine judgment, specifically referring to chains of darkness binding fallen angels, emphasizing the reality and severity of spiritual bondage and judgment.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: chains, bondage, judgment, fallen angels, divine justice, spiritual bondage, Peter’s epistles, biblical Greek, judgment terminology, restraint, binding, spiritual warfare​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​