### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hálysis**, represented by `{{G254}}`, refers to a **fetter** or **manacle** and is commonly translated as **bonds** or **chain**. This word, which is of uncertain derivation, appears **11 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its role in contexts of imprisonment, supernatural power, and divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G254}}` is used to describe both literal and metaphorical bonds. It depicts the physical restraints on prisoners, such as when the Apostle Paul was commanded to be bound with two **chains** [[Acts 21:33]] or when Peter's **chains** miraculously fell off his hands in prison [[Acts 12:7]]. The term is also used to describe the supernatural strength of a demon-possessed man who had been often bound with fetters and **chains** but would pluck the **chains** asunder [[Mark 5:4]]. Paul uses the term metaphorically to describe his imprisonment for the gospel, referring to himself as an "ambassador in **bonds**" [[Ephesians 6:20]] and citing his **chain** as a consequence of the hope of Israel [[Acts 28:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of binding and restraint:
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón** (a band, i.e. ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); figuratively, an impediment or disability:--band, bond, chain, string): This word is used for the "bands" that the demon-possessed man broke [[Luke 8:29]] and also for the "everlasting **chains**" holding fallen angels in darkness [[Jude 1:6]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind): This is the primary verb for the act of binding. It is used when Paul is commanded to be **bound** with chains [[Acts 21:33]] and when the dragon, Satan, is **bound** for a thousand years [[Revelation 20:2]].
* `{{G3976}}` **pédē** (a shackle for the feet:--fetter): This specific term for a foot shackle is used in conjunction with `{{G254}}` to describe the complete restraint of the man dwelling among the tombs [[Mark 5:4]].
* `{{G1288}}` **diaspáō** (to draw apart, i.e. sever or dismember:--pluck asunder, pull in pieces): This verb describes the violent breaking of restraints, as when the **chains** were **plucked asunder** by the demon-possessed man [[Mark 5:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G254}}` is seen in its use across different contexts, illustrating divine power and the cost of discipleship.
* **Limitation and Liberation:** The word highlights the futility of human or demonic restraints against God's purposes. An angel causes Peter's **chains** to fall off [[Acts 12:7]], and a demon-possessed man's ability to pluck **chains** asunder demonstrates a power that only Christ can subdue [[Mark 5:4]].
* **A Mark of Faithfulness:** For the Apostle Paul, a **chain** becomes a symbol of his faithful testimony. He refers to himself as an "ambassador in **bonds**" [[Ephesians 6:20]], and Onesiphorus is praised because he "was not ashamed of my **chain**" [[2 Timothy 1:16]].
* **Instrument of Divine Judgment:** In an apocalyptic vision, `{{G254}}` is an instrument of divine authority. An angel descends from heaven holding a great **chain** to bind Satan, signifying God's ultimate power over evil [[Revelation 20:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G254}}` **hálysis** moves from a simple word for a physical **chain** to a potent symbol in the biblical narrative. It describes the literal bonds of prisoners like Peter and Paul, the supernatural force demonstrated by the demon-possessed, and the eschatological binding of Satan. Ultimately, the **chain** represents not just physical confinement, but also the cost of apostolic ministry and the certainty of God's final authority over all powers.
TRV