Summary
Quick facts
- Strong’s Number
- G4603
- Original Word
- σιδήρεος
- Transliteration
- sidḗreos
- Pronunciation
- sid-ay'-reh-os
- Part of Speech
- adjective
- Category
- Creation
- Root / Etymology
- from G4604 (σίδηρος);
- Frequency
- 5×
- Gematria
- 597
Where it appears
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Commentary
Contributors: · · · ·
Strong's G4603: An adjective meaning "made of iron," derived from σίδηρος (iron). In biblical usage, it appears in contexts emphasizing strength, authority, or oppression. The word carries connotations of both power and inflexibility, often used metaphorically in prophetic and apocalyptic literature.
U- Unveiling the Word
σιδηροῦς represents both literal iron construction and metaphorical strength or inflexibility. First appearing in Acts 12:10 describing the prison gate that miraculously opened for Peter, it symbolizes seemingly insurmountable barriers that God can overcome. Early church writers saw in this word both the reality of persecution (iron chains) and the power of God to deliver. Today, it reminds us that no barrier, however strong, can withstand God's purpose.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words:
Not applicable as σιδηροῦς is derived with an adjectival suffix
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Adjective Features:
Examples:
Masculine: σιδηροῦς (nom), σιδηροῦ (gen)
Feminine: σιδηρᾶ (nom), σιδηρᾶς (gen)
Neuter: σιδηροῦν (nom/acc), σιδηροῦ (gen)
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S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical uses. Thayer's notes its connection to strength and authority. LSJ documents its use in technical contexts. Vine's highlights its symbolic significance. Strong's connects it to unbending strength. Moulton-Milligan provides evidence from commercial documents.
T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord:" Acts 12:10
Additional References:
Revelation 2:27, Revelation 9:9, Revelation 12:5, Revelation 19:15
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
σιδηροῦς reminds us that even the strongest earthly barriers cannot resist God's will. Whether literal iron gates or metaphorical obstacles, all yield to divine power. The word points to Christ's ultimate authority, who rules with an iron scepter yet uses His power for redemption.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4603: An adjective meaning "made of iron," derived from σίδηρος (iron). In biblical usage, it appears in contexts emphasizing strength, authority, or oppression. The word carries connotations of both power and inflexibility, often used metaphorically in prophetic and apocalyptic literature.
Part of speech: Adjective
Tags: iron, strength, power, divine authority, barriers, persecution, deliverance, Revelation, apocalyptic imagery, Roman power, divine sovereignty, material qualities