### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pýlē**, represented by `{{G4439}}`, is a primary term for a **gate**. It appears 10 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. While it literally refers to the wing of a folding entrance, it is used both for physical doorways and as a powerful metaphor for points of entry, decision, and spiritual authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G4439}}` denotes the gate of a city, temple, or prison. It marks a point of passage and observation, as when Jesus approached the **gate** of a city and encountered a funeral procession [[Luke 7:12]], or when enemies watched the city **gates** to kill Saul [[Acts 9:24]]. It is also seen at the "Beautiful **gate** of the temple" [[Acts 3:10]] and the "iron **gate**" of a prison [[Acts 12:10]]. Figuratively, it represents the choice between two ultimate destinies: the "strait **gate**" that leads to life and the "wide **gate**" that leads to destruction [[Matthew 7:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and action surrounding a `{{G4439}}` gate:
* `{{G4728}}` **stenós** (narrow (from obstacles standing close about):--strait.): This adjective is used to describe the **gate** that leads to life, emphasizing the difficulty of the path [[Matthew 7:14]].
* `{{G3598}}` **hodós** (a road; by implication, a progress... figuratively, a mode or means:--journey, (high-)way.): This word is often paired with **gate**, as the gate is the entrance to a specific **way** or path, whether broad or narrow [[Matthew 7:13]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter (literally or figuratively):--X arise, come (in, into), enter in(-to), go in (through).): This verb describes the action of passing through the gate, highlighting the need to **enter** through the correct one [[Luke 13:24]].
* `{{G86}}` **háidēs** ("Hades" or the place (state) of departed souls:--grave, hell.): This word is used with **gate** to form the phrase "gates of **hell**," symbolizing the power and domain of death [[Matthew 16:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4439}}` is most evident in its figurative uses. It serves as a powerful symbol for critical spiritual concepts:
* **The Point of Decision:** The image of the two gates, one strait and one wide, establishes the gate as a metaphor for a life-defining choice. One must **strive** `{{G75}}` to enter the strait **gate** that leads to **life** `{{G2222}}`, as the wide gate leads to **destruction** `{{G684}}` ([[Luke 13:24]], [[Matthew 7:13]]).
* **Boundary of Spiritual Power:** The "gates of **hell**" `{{G86}}` are depicted as a force that cannot prevail against the church, which is built on a **rock** `{{G4073}}`. Here, the gate represents the stronghold or authority of a spiritual realm [[Matthew 16:18]].
* **Place of Consecration:** Jesus suffered "without the **gate**" `{{G1854}}` in order to **sanctify** `{{G37}}` the people with His own blood. This positions the gate as a boundary between the profane and the holy, or a place of symbolic separation [[Hebrews 13:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4439}}` extends far beyond a simple architectural feature. It is a cornerstone biblical metaphor representing access, decision, and spiritual dominion. From the literal city gates of Jerusalem to the symbolic gates of life and hell, **pýlē** forces a consideration of the paths we take, the choices we make, and the spiritual authorities that govern our entrances and exits.
TRV