### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **desmōtḗrion**, represented by `{{G1201}}`, defines **a place of bondage**, i.e. a dungeon or **prison**. It is derived from a word related to `{{G1199}}`, meaning a band or shackle. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, signifying its role in key narrative moments of confinement and divine intervention.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1201}}` is used to describe a place of physical confinement for key figures. John heard about the works of Christ while held in **prison** [[Matthew 11:2]]. The high priest and the council of Israel also sent to the **prison** to have the apostles brought before them [[Acts 5:21]]. The security of such a place is highlighted when it is described as being **shut** with all safety, with **keepers** standing before the doors [[Acts 5:23]]. Yet, it is also the setting for a supernatural event, where a great earthquake shook the foundations of the **prison**, opening all the doors and loosing every one's bands [[Acts 16:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the environment and experience of the **prison**:
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón**: This word for a **band, bond,** or **shackle** is the conceptual root of **prison**. It refers to the physical restraints used on prisoners, as seen in the event where "every one's **bands** were loosed" [[Acts 16:26]].
* `{{G5441}}` **phýlax**: Meaning a **watcher or sentry**, this word identifies the guards of a prison. These **keepers** were found "standing without before the doors" when the prison was inspected, emphasizing the security of the location [[Acts 5:23]].
* `{{G2374}}` **thýra**: This word for a **door** or gate is a key physical feature of a prison, representing the barrier between confinement and freedom. The **doors** of the prison were found securely shut [[Acts 5:23]] and were miraculously opened during an earthquake [[Acts 16:26]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G1201}}` is demonstrated in its specific contexts:
* **A Tool of Human Authority:** The **prison** is used by religious leaders, such as the high priest and the council, as a means to exert control and attempt to suppress the apostles [[Acts 5:21]].
* **A Setting for Revelation:** Confinement within a **prison** does not stop the work of God. It is from **prison** that John sends his disciples to Jesus, prompting a key declaration about Christ's ministry [[Matthew 11:2]].
* **A Stage for Divine Power:** The **prison** becomes a theater for God's power, which overrides man-made security. This is seen when keepers find a securely shut **prison** mysteriously empty [[Acts 5:23]] and when an earthquake divinely shakes its foundations, opens the doors, and looses prisoners' bands [[Acts 16:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1201}}` is more than a mere location. Though used sparingly, **desmōtḗrion** marks a point of conflict between human authority and divine purpose. It functions as a place of confinement where faith is tested, as with John [[Matthew 11:2]], and as a setting where God's power is spectacularly displayed, defying locks, doors [[Acts 5:23]], and even the foundations of the **prison** itself [[Acts 16:26]].
TRV