apparently a primary word (compare "door"); a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively):--door, gate.
Transliteration:thýra
Pronunciation:thoo'-rah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun θύρα (thýra), transliterated as "thýra," denotes a portal or entrance, encompassing both the opening itself and the means of its closure. As a seemingly primary word, its core meaning is concrete and foundational: a physical "door" or "gate" that controls access into or out of a space. Its semantic range extends significantly beyond the literal, embracing metaphorical applications that convey concepts of opportunity, access, exclusion, and passage. It can represent a barrier that must be overcome or a gateway that provides entry, signifying both separation and connection. This dual nature—as both an opening and a closure—is crucial to understanding its rich biblical usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term θύρα appears frequently in the New Testament, illustrating its diverse applications. Literally, it refers to the entrance of a house or building, as seen when Peter knocks at the thýra of Mary's house in [[Acts 12:6]] or when the stone seals the thýra of Jesus' tomb in [[Matthew 27:60]].
Figuratively, θύρα often signifies an "opportunity" for ministry or evangelism. Paul speaks of a "great door for effective work" (thýra megalē energēs) being opened to him in Ephesus in [[1 Corinthians 16:9]], and similarly in [[Colossians 4:3]], he asks for prayer that God would open a thýra for the word. This usage highlights divine providence in creating avenues for the Gospel.
Another significant figurative use relates to "access" or "exclusion." The well-known imperative to "knock, and the door will be opened to you" (krausate kai anoigēsetai hymin hē thýra) in [[Matthew 7:7]] and [[Luke 11:9-10]] speaks to the availability of God's kingdom to those who seek. Conversely, the "narrow door" (thýra stenē) in [[Luke 13:24]] emphasizes the difficulty and exclusivity of salvation. The parable of the ten virgins in [[Matthew 25:10-12]] starkly portrays the tragic finality of a thýra being shut, signifying lost opportunity and exclusion from the wedding feast (the kingdom).
Perhaps the most profound usage is found in the Gospel of John, where Jesus declares, "I am the door" (Egō eimi hē thýra) in [[John 10:7]] and [[John 10:9]]. Here, thýra represents the sole means of access to salvation, the Father, and the "sheepfold" (the community of believers). In [[Revelation 3:20]], Jesus stands at the thýra and knocks, inviting intimate fellowship. Finally, in [[Revelation 4:1]], John sees a thýra standing open in heaven, symbolizing direct access to God's throne and divine revelation.
### Related Words & Concepts
While θύρα (thýra) typically denotes a door, often of a house or room, it is important to distinguish it from related terms. The Greek word `{{G4439}}` (pulē), also translated "gate," generally refers to a larger, more imposing entrance, such as a city gate or the gate of a temple. While both thýra and pulē serve as points of entry and exit, thýra often implies a more personal, domestic, or specific access point, whereas pulē suggests a public, fortified, or monumental entrance.
Other related concepts include `{{G3598}}` (hodos), meaning "way" or "road," which can also convey the idea of a path or means to an end, similar to how a door provides a way. The concept of "threshold" is implicitly linked, representing the boundary marked by a door. The broader themes of access, exclusion, opportunity, salvation, and judgment are all intricately connected to the semantic field of thýra.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of θύρα (thýra) is immense, particularly in the teachings of Jesus.
1. **Christ as the Exclusive Access:** Jesus' declaration "I am the door" in [[John 10:7]] and [[John 10:9]] is foundational. It unequivocally states that He is the sole means of salvation, the only way to the Father, and the only path to eternal life. There is no other legitimate entry point into God's sheepfold (His kingdom and people). This emphasizes His unique mediatorial role and the exclusivity of the Gospel.
2. **Divine Opportunity and Call:** The "open door" for ministry signifies God's sovereign hand in creating opportunities for the spread of His word. It calls believers to discernment and readiness to enter these divine appointments. Conversely, the "door" that Jesus knocks on in [[Revelation 3:20]] represents His persistent invitation to personal relationship and fellowship, highlighting His grace and our need to respond.
3. **Human Responsibility and Urgency:** The imagery of knocking to have the door opened underscores human initiative in seeking God. However, the "narrow door" and the "shut door" in parables serve as stark warnings. They emphasize the need for earnest striving, repentance, and faith *before* the time of opportunity passes, highlighting the urgency of responding to God's call and the reality of final judgment for those who delay or refuse.
4. **Access to Divine Presence:** The "door standing open in heaven" in [[Revelation 4:1]] symbolizes unhindered access to God's throne room, revealing the ultimate reality of divine sovereignty and the privilege of revelation granted to John.
### Summary
The Greek word θύρα (thýra) fundamentally denotes a "door" or "gate," serving as both an opening and a closure. Its biblical usage extends from literal physical entrances to profound figurative representations. It frequently signifies opportunities for ministry, access to God, or exclusion from His presence. Most significantly, Jesus' self-identification as "the door" in [[John 10:7]] and [[John 10:9]] establishes Him as the singular and exclusive means of salvation and access to the Father. The concept of thýra thus encapsulates themes of divine initiative, human responsibility, the urgency of faith, and the ultimate reality of Christ as the sole pathway to eternal life and fellowship with God.
TRV