### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anabathmós**, represented by `{{G304}}`, literally means a **stairway**. Derived from ἀναβαίνω, it appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its rarity highlights its use in a very specific and dramatic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G304}}` are found in the narrative of Paul's arrest in Jerusalem. The **stairs** serve as a transitional space between the violent mob and the safety of the barracks. As the people pressed with great **violence** `{{G970}}`, Paul was carried up the **stairs** `{{G304}}` by the soldiers `{{G4757}}` [[Acts 21:35]]. Immediately after, having been given permission, Paul `{{G3972}}` stood on these same **stairs** `{{G304}}` to address the crowd, beckoning for silence before speaking to them in the Hebrew tongue [[Acts 21:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the context of this scene:
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul): The central figure of the event, an apostle who uses this chaotic moment as an opportunity to speak [[Romans 1:1]].
* `{{G4757}}` **stratiṓtēs** (soldier): Defined as a common warrior, these men act as instruments of rescue, bearing Paul up the stairs away from the mob ([[Acts 21:35]], [[2 Timothy 2:3]]).
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (throng): This word describes the multitude or rabble whose violence necessitated Paul's rescue [[Acts 21:35]]. The term can also refer to a great multitude of people in heaven [[Revelation 19:1]].
* `{{G970}}` **bía** (violence): Meaning force, this is the impetus for the entire event on the stairs, demonstrating the hostility Paul faced [[Acts 21:35]].
### Theological Significance
Though a simple architectural term, the context surrounding `{{G304}}` carries significant themes:
* **A Platform for Proclamation:** The **stairs** become a literal platform from which Paul `{{G3972}}`, having been granted licence `{{G2010}}`, stands `{{G2476}}` and speaks `{{G4377}}` to the very people who were moments before trying to harm him [[Acts 21:40]].
* **Sanctuary in Chaos:** The **stairs** represent a place of refuge. Paul is borne `{{G941}}` up them by soldiers `{{G4757}}`, delivered from the immediate danger of the violent throng `{{G3793}}` below [[Acts 21:35]].
* **Divine Providence through Secular Means:** The intervention of the Roman soldiers `{{G4757}}` to protect Paul and place him on the **stairs** illustrates how God can use worldly authorities to preserve his servants for his purposes.
### Summary
In summary, **anabathmós** `{{G304}}` is a term whose significance is defined entirely by its context. While it simply means **stairs**, its two appearances in Scripture mark a pivotal moment. This physical structure serves as the stage for a dramatic scene of rescue from violence and a courageous attempt at proclamation, showing how even a common location can become a place of divine importance in the biblical narrative.
TRV