from πύλη; a gate-way, door-way of a building or city; by implication, a portal or vestibule:--gate, porch.
Transliteration:pylṓn
Pronunciation:poo-lone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term pylṓn (`{{G4440}}`) is derived from pylē (`{{G4439}}`), which means "gate." While pylē can refer to a simple opening or gate, pylṓn signifies a more substantial and often elaborate entrance structure. Its core meaning encompasses a "gateway," a "doorway of a building or city," and by implication, a "portal" or "vestibule." This suggests an architectural feature that is more than just an opening; it is the structure surrounding the entrance, often implying a degree of grandeur, fortification, or a distinct space of transition. Semantically, it ranges from the main entrance to a private dwelling to the imposing gates of a city or a magnificent palace.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Pylṓn appears several times in the New Testament, consistently denoting a significant point of entry:
* **City Gates:** In [[Acts 9:24]], the Jews watch the gates (pylṓn) of Damascus to prevent Saul's escape, highlighting their function as controlled access points for a city's defense and commerce. In the book of Revelation, pylṓn is used repeatedly to describe the twelve gates of the New Jerusalem ([[Revelation 21:12]], [[Revelation 21:13]], [[Revelation 21:15]], [[Revelation 21:21]], [[Revelation 21:25]]). These are not mere openings but grand, pearly structures, symbolizing the glorious entrance to the eternal city. Their perpetual openness ([[Revelation 21:25]]) is a key theological point, signifying complete security and unhindered access.
* **House/Palace Entrances:** The term is used for the entrance to private residences, often implying a substantial or well-appointed home. In [[Acts 12:13-14]], Rhoda comes to the gate (pylṓn) of Mary's house where Peter is knocking, suggesting an outer gate or a vestibule leading to the main dwelling. Similarly, in [[Acts 10:17]], Cornelius's servants stand at the gate (pylṓn) of Simon the tanner's house. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, Lazarus is laid at the rich man's gate (pylṓn) ([[Luke 16:20]]), emphasizing the stark social division and the opulence of the rich man's entrance.
* **Architectural Features:** In [[Matthew 26:71]], Peter moves out to the porch (pylṓn) or gateway area of the courtyard during Jesus' trial, indicating a specific architectural component of a larger building or complex.
Across these contexts, pylṓn consistently refers to a prominent entrance, often with implications of control, security, social status, or symbolic significance.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G4439}}` (πύλη - pylē):** The root word for pylṓn, meaning "gate." While pylē can be used more generally, pylṓn often implies a more substantial or significant gate structure.
* **`{{G2374}}` (θύρα - thyra):** A broader term for "door" or "gate," often referring to an opening into a room or a single entrance. Pylṓn distinctively refers to the larger, often external, or more complex entrance structure.
* **`{{H8179}}` (שַׁעַר - sha'ar):** The Hebrew equivalent for "gate," particularly city gates, which were vital centers for legal proceedings, commerce, and social gathering in ancient Israel. The function and significance of pylṓn in the Greek context often parallel those of sha'ar in the Hebrew.
* **Concepts:** The word pylṓn is inherently linked to concepts of:
* **Access and Exclusion:** Gates control who enters and exits.
* **Security and Defense:** Especially in the context of city gates.
* **Transition and Threshold:** Moving from one space or state to another.
* **Authority and Judgment:** As city gates were often places of civic life.
* **Hospitality and Welcome:** Particularly evident in the open gates of the New Jerusalem.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of pylṓn is most profoundly expressed in the vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation. The twelve gates (pylṓn) of the city, each a single pearl, are not merely architectural details but potent symbols:
* **The Glory and Value of God's Dwelling:** The gates made of pearl ([[Revelation 21:21]]) signify the immeasurable beauty, purity, and preciousness of the eternal city and God's presence within it.
* **Unrestricted Access to God's Presence:** The declaration that the city's gates will "never be shut by day—for there will be no night there" ([[Revelation 21:25]]) is profoundly significant. It contrasts with earthly cities that close their gates for security at night. This symbolizes the perfect peace, security, and unhindered access to God for the redeemed. There is no longer any threat or need for exclusion; all who are in Christ are welcome to enter God's eternal presence.
* **Divine Order and Completeness:** The twelve gates, corresponding to the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles ([[Revelation 21:12]], [[Revelation 21:14]]), represent the continuity and fulfillment of God's covenant with both Israel and the Church, signifying the completeness of God's redeemed people.
* **Christ as the Ultimate Gate:** While pylṓn refers to the physical structure, the concept of "the gate" in the New Testament ultimately points to Christ himself as the sole means of entry into salvation and God's kingdom. Jesus declares, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" ([[John 10:9]]). The pylṓn of the heavenly city, therefore, represents the glorious and open access to God made possible only through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
### Summary
Pylṓn (`{{G4440}}`) denotes a substantial and often significant gateway, portal, or vestibule, distinct from a simple door. It describes the grand entrances of cities, palaces, or prominent homes in the New Testament, highlighting their role in access, security, and social demarcation. Theologically, its most profound usage is in the description of the New Jerusalem, where the perpetually open, pearl-adorned gates symbolize the glorious, secure, and unrestricted access to God's eternal presence for the redeemed, a reality ultimately made possible through Jesus Christ, who is the true "door" to salvation.
TRV