from διά and φυλάσσω; to guard thoroughly, i.e. protect:--keep.
Transliteration:diaphylássō
Pronunciation:dee-af-oo-las'-so
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`, *diaphylássō*) is a compound word formed from the preposition διά (*dia*), meaning "through" or "thoroughly," and the verb φυλάσσω (`{{G5442}}`, *phylássō*), meaning "to guard," "to watch," "to keep," or "to preserve." The prefix διά serves as an intensifier, indicating a comprehensive, thorough, or complete action. Thus, διαφυλάσσω signifies a diligent and exhaustive form of guarding or protection. It implies a keeping that is not merely superficial or partial, but one that extends through every aspect, ensuring full preservation or security. The semantic range therefore encompasses notions of thorough protection, complete safeguarding, and diligent preservation from harm or danger.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`) appears only once in the Greek New Testament, specifically in [[Luke 4:10]]. This singular occurrence is highly significant, as it is part of Satan's temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. Satan quotes from [[Psalm 91:11]] (LXX: [[Psalm 90:11]]), saying, "For it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you thoroughly (διαφυλάσσω) to keep you safe’." In this context, the word underscores the divine promise of comprehensive angelic protection for the Messiah. Satan uses this promise to tempt Jesus into presumptuously testing God's faithfulness by casting Himself down from the temple. Jesus' response, "You shall not put the Lord your God to the test" [[Luke 4:12]], highlights the distinction between trusting in God's promised protection and demanding a miraculous intervention outside of His will or in a manner that tests His character.
While rare in the New Testament, διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`) is found more frequently in the Septuagint (LXX), the Greek translation of the Old Testament. Its usage in the LXX, particularly in passages like [[Psalm 91:11]] and [[Psalm 121:7]] (LXX: [[Psalm 120:7]]), consistently conveys the idea of God's meticulous and unwavering protection over His people. For example, [[Psalm 121:7]] states, "The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep (διαφυλάσσω) your soul." This broader biblical context informs the depth of meaning attached to the word in [[Luke 4:10]], emphasizing a divine safeguard that is complete and all-encompassing.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share semantic overlap with διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`), though with varying nuances:
* φυλάσσω (`{{G5442}}`): The base verb, meaning to guard, watch, keep. διαφυλάσσω intensifies this basic meaning, implying a more thorough or complete guarding.
* τηρέω (`{{G5083}}`): To keep, preserve, watch over. Often used for keeping commands or holding something in custody. While similar in outcome, τηρέω does not carry the same intensified sense of active, thorough protection inherent in διαφυλάσσω.
* σῴζω (`{{G4982}}`): To save, deliver, preserve. This is a broader term for salvation, which can include protection from danger, but it encompasses more than just guarding.
* ἀσφάλεια (`{{G803}}`): A noun meaning security, safety, certainty. This represents the state of being protected, which διαφυλάσσω aims to achieve.
The concept of divine providence and angelic ministry are also closely related, as the word points to God's active involvement in safeguarding His creation and His people, often through the agency of angels.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`) is profound, despite its single New Testament occurrence. It speaks directly to the nature of God's providential care and His commitment to those who are His.
1. **God's Comprehensive Protection:** The intensifying prefix διά highlights that God's protection is not superficial or partial, but thorough and complete. He guards "through and through," encompassing every aspect of life and every potential danger. This speaks to His omnipotence and unwavering faithfulness.
2. **Divine Sovereignty and Faithfulness:** In the context of [[Luke 4:10]] and [[Psalm 91:11]], διαφυλάσσω underscores God's sovereign control and His faithfulness to His promises. He is the one who commands His angels to provide this thorough protection.
3. **Distinction between Trust and Presumption:** Jesus' response to Satan's use of this verse is crucial. While God promises thorough protection, this promise is not an invitation to test God or to act presumptuously. True faith trusts in God's care within the bounds of His will, rather than demanding a display of power for one's own ends. It teaches that God's protection is for His glory and for the furtherance of His redemptive plan, not for human manipulation or self-serving displays.
4. **Messianic Protection:** In the Lukan account, the word specifically refers to the protection afforded to the Messiah. This foreshadows God's constant watch over Jesus throughout His earthly ministry, ensuring He would fulfill His mission despite all opposition.
### Summary
διαφυλάσσω (`{{G1314}}`) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to guard thoroughly" or "to protect completely." Formed from διά (through, thoroughly) and φυλάσσω (to guard), it emphasizes an exhaustive and diligent safeguarding. Though appearing only once in the New Testament in [[Luke 4:10]], its significance is amplified by its context in Satan's temptation of Jesus, where it quotes [[Psalm 91:11]] from the Septuagint. Theologically, διαφυλάσσω powerfully articulates God's comprehensive and unfailing protection over His beloved, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness. It serves as a reminder of God's meticulous care, while also cautioning against the presumption of testing His divine provision.
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