### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thýra**, represented by `{{G2374}}`, denotes a **portal or entrance**. It appears **39 times** across **37 unique verses**, and can refer to an opening or its closure, both literally and figuratively. Its core meaning encompasses the concepts of a door or a gate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2374}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it refers to the physical entrances of buildings, such as the **door** of a closet for private prayer [[Matthew 6:6]], the **doors** of a room where disciples gathered in fear [[John 20:19]], or the stone rolled to the **door** of a sepulchre [[Mark 15:46]]. It is also used for prison **doors**, which are opened by an angel [[Acts 5:19]] or shaken open by an earthquake [[Acts 16:26]]. Figuratively, Jesus identifies himself as the exclusive entry to salvation, stating, "I am the **door** of the sheep" [[John 10:7]] and "I am the **door**: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved" [[John 10:9]]. The term also represents divine opportunity, as in a "door of utterance" [[Colossians 4:3]] or a "**door** of faith" opened to the Gentiles [[Acts 14:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the actions and roles associated with a **door**:
* `{{G2377}}` **thyrōrós** (a gate- warden): Derived from **thýra**, this term refers to a porter or someone who keeps the door. It is used to describe the person who grants access to the shepherd [[John 10:3]] and the damsel who brought Peter in [[John 18:16]].
* `{{G455}}` **anoígō** (to open up): This verb describes the primary action of making a door accessible. It is used for God opening a "door of faith" [[Acts 14:27]], an angel opening prison doors [[Acts 5:19]], and for believers to open the door to a knocking Christ [[Revelation 3:20]].
* `{{G2808}}` **kleíō** (to close): This is the counterpart to opening, signifying the shutting of a door. It appears in the context of the door being shut after the ready went in to the marriage [[Matthew 25:10]] and the doors being shut where the disciples were gathered [[John 20:19]].
* `{{G2925}}` **kroúō** (to rap): This word describes the act of knocking to request entry. It is used in Christ's invitation, "Behold, I stand at the door, and **knock**" [[Revelation 3:20]], and when people knock at a shut door after their opportunity has passed [[Luke 13:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2374}}` is significant, symbolizing key spiritual concepts.
* **Access to Salvation:** Jesus' declaration, "I am the **door**" [[John 10:9]], establishes Him as the sole means of access to salvation and spiritual life. Anyone who enters through Him is saved, while those who try another way are described as thieves and robbers [[John 10:1]].
* **Divine Opportunity:** The image of an "open **door**" is used to represent an opportunity granted by God for ministry and the spread of the Gospel. This includes an effectual door for Paul's work [[1 Corinthians 16:9]] and a "door of faith" opened for the Gentiles [[Acts 14:27]].
* **Imminent Judgment:** The position of a person or object at the door often signifies immediacy or impending judgment. James warns that "the judge standeth before the **door**" [[James 5:9]], and Jesus speaks of the signs of the end being "near, even at the **doors**" [[Matthew 24:33]].
* **Personal Invitation:** In a direct appeal to the church, Christ is pictured standing at the **door** and knocking [[Revelation 3:20]]. This illustrates a personal and relational invitation from God, contingent on hearing His voice and opening the door to Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2374}}` **thýra** transcends its literal meaning of a physical gateway. While it grounds narratives in tangible settings like prisons, tombs, and homes, its greater significance lies in its figurative use. It serves as a powerful metaphor for Jesus Christ as the exclusive entrance to salvation, for God-given opportunities for evangelism, and for the imminent reality of judgment. The word illustrates how a common object can become a profound symbol of access, opportunity, and finality in the relationship between God and humanity.
TRV