The Greek word kleís, represented by G2807, is defined as a key, used both literally and figuratively for shutting a lock. It is derived from the verb G2808 kleíō, meaning "to shut." The word appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, consistently symbolizing authority and control.
In scripture, G2807 is used to denote significant spiritual authority. The resurrected Christ declares, "I am he that liveth... and have the keys of hell and of death" Revelation 1:18, signifying his ultimate power over these realms. This authority is also described as the "key of David," which allows him to open what no one can shut and shut what no one can open Revelation 3:7. This same concept of authority is delegated when Jesus gives Peter the "keys of the kingdom of heaven" Matthew 16:19. The word is also used to represent access to understanding, as when Jesus chastises the lawyers for having "taken away the key of knowledge" Luke 11:52.
Several related words help clarify the function and meaning of a key:
- G2808 kleíō (to close (literally or figuratively):--shut (up)): As the root verb, it describes one of the primary actions of a key. This is seen in the declaration that Christ has the key and "shutteth, and no man openeth" Revelation 3:7.
- G455 anoígō (to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications):--open): This is the direct counterpart to shutting. The one who possesses the key of David is he that "openeth, and no man shutteth" Revelation 3:7.
- G1210 déō (a primary verb; to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind): The authority of the keys is directly linked to the power to bind. Jesus promises that "whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven" Matthew 16:19.
- G3089 lýō (a primary verb; to "loosen"): The complementary power to binding is loosing. The one given the keys is also told, "whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" Matthew 16:19.
The theological weight of G2807 is centered on the concept of divine authority and access.
- Sovereign Authority: The key is a symbol of absolute power belonging to Christ. He holds the keys of death Revelation 1:18, the key of David Revelation 3:7, and grants the key to the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:1, Revelation 20:1), demonstrating his complete control over life, death, and spiritual domains.
- Delegated Authority: The "keys of the kingdom of heaven" given to Peter represent authority delegated to believers on earth to act in accordance with heaven's will, specifically in matters of binding and loosing Matthew 16:19.
- Access to Truth: The "key of knowledge" signifies the means of entering into true understanding. Taking this key away is a grave offense, as it hinders others from entering into a right relationship with God Luke 11:52.
In summary, G2807 is a potent biblical symbol representing far more than a physical instrument. It signifies sovereign authority, delegated power, and exclusive access. Whether used to describe Christ's dominion over death, the church's stewardship of the gospel, or control over spiritual realms, the key consistently points to the power to open and to shut, to bind and to loose, granting or restricting entry as its holder decrees.
TRV