Brief Overview of πυλών (Strong’s G4440: pulōn)

Strong’s G4440: A large gateway or vestibule, denoting a more elaborate entrance structure than πύλη. Often used for impressive entrances to temples, palaces, or wealthy homes. In biblical contexts, it represents both literal architectural features and serves as a setting for significant events in biblical narratives.

U- Unveiling the Word

The word πυλών represents a specific type of architectural feature that went beyond a simple gate or door. As a derivative of πύλη, it describes a more elaborate gateway structure, often including a vestibule or covered entrance area. In New Testament usage, πυλών appears in significant narrative contexts, from Peter’s denial of Jesus to the description of heavenly gates in Revelation. The term carried cultural significance as these gateways often served as transition points between public and private spaces, places of announcement, and symbols of authority or wealth. Early church writers saw theological significance in these gateway structures as representing transition points between the secular and sacred, while also serving as metaphors for entering into God’s presence. Today, this architectural term continues to remind us of the thresholds we cross in our spiritual journey.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πυλών, pulōn, /pyˈlōn/
• Pronunciation Guide: “poo-LOAN” (stress on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun (masculine)

Etymology:

• Root: πύλ- (pul-) – from πύλη meaning “gate”
• Suffix: -ών (-ōn) – augmentative suffix indicating larger size or greater importance

D – Defining Meanings

• Large gateway structure
• Vestibule or covered entrance
• Portico of a building
• Monumental entrance

For compound words:
The augmentative suffix -ών transforms the basic meaning of πύλη (gate) into a more substantial or impressive structure

Translation Options:

• Gateway – Emphasizes the transitional nature of the structure
• Portico – Highlights the architectural elaboration
• Vestibule – Focuses on the entrance hall aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• πύλη (pulē) /pyˈlē/ – simpler term for gate or entrance – See G4439
• στοά (stoa) /stoˈa/ – covered walkway or portico – See G4745
• θύρα (thura) /ˈθyra/ – door or entrance – See G2374

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological Features (Noun):

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: Third

Examples:

• Nominative: πυλών (pulōn) – the gateway
• Genitive: πυλῶνος (pulōnos) – of the gateway
• Dative: πυλῶνι (pulōni) – to/for the gateway
• Accusative: πυλῶνα (pulōna) – the gateway (as direct object)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes the architectural grandeur of πυλών, noting its use in describing significant structures. Thayer’s highlights its function as a passage between exterior and interior spaces. LSJ provides extensive examples from classical architecture. Vine’s notes its specific use in the Passion narrative. Strong’s connects it to elaborate entrance structures. LEH traces its usage in Hellenistic architecture, while Moulton and Milligan provide evidence of its use in describing wealthy residences.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:
“And when he went out to the [πυλῶνα] entrance, another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, ‘This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.'” Matthew 26:71

Additional References:
Luke 16:20, Acts 10:17, Acts 12:13, Acts 12:14, Revelation 21:12, Revelation 21:13, Revelation 21:15

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The πυλών serves as a powerful reminder of transition points in our spiritual journey. From Peter’s denial at the high priest’s gateway to the glorious gates of the New Jerusalem, these elaborate entrances mark significant moments in salvation history. This architectural term proclaims the good news by pointing to Christ as our access to God’s presence, reminding us that through Him, we have bold access to the Father’s house.

D – Did You Know?

1. The term πυλών is still used in modern Greek architecture to describe monumental entrances.
2. In ancient Egypt, the pylon (derived from πυλών) was a massive trapezoidal gateway marking temple entrances.
3. The πυλών of wealthy homes often included a porter’s lodge, making it a center of household communication and security.

Strong’s G4440: A large, often elaborate gateway structure or vestibule, typically found in temples, palaces, or wealthy homes. Distinguished from simpler gates by its architectural complexity and grandeur. Significant in biblical narratives as settings for key events and symbolic transitions.

Part of speech: Noun (masculine)

Tags: gateway, vestibule, portico, architecture, entrance, palace, temple, threshold, transition, Peter’s denial, Revelation, New Jerusalem, biblical architecture, sacred space​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​