### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pýrgos**, represented by `{{G4444}}`, is a primary word that means **a tower or castle**. It is a specific term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. It consistently refers to a literal, man-made structure, used for purposes of observation, defense, or as a significant landmark.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4444}}` appears in two distinct contexts. In the parables of the vineyard, a **tower** is described as a key component built by a householder to watch over his property, alongside a hedge and a winepress ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]). This illustrates foresight and protective care. Separately, in the gospel of Luke, a **tower** is used as a metaphor for a significant undertaking that requires one to "counteth the cost" before beginning construction [[Luke 14:28]]. It is also mentioned as a real structure, the **tower** in Siloam, whose collapse is used to teach a lesson on repentance rather than judgment [[Luke 13:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the context in which a **tower** is built or conceptualized:
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to be a house-builder, i.e. construct or (figuratively) confirm): This verb is directly paired with **pýrgos**, as seen in the admonition for one intending to **build** a tower to first count the cost [[Luke 14:28]].
* `{{G290}}` **ampelṓn** (a vineyard): The **tower** is twice presented as a structure built within a **vineyard**, highlighting its role in agricultural security [[Mark 12:1]].
* `{{G5418}}` **phragmós** (a fence, or inclosing barrier): In the same parables, this word for "hedge" is used alongside **tower** to describe the complete defense of a property [[Matthew 21:33]].
* `{{G3736}}` **orýssō** (to "burrow" in the ground, i.e. dig): This action is part of the same construction effort that includes building a tower, as the owner also **digged** a winepress [[Matthew 21:33]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4444}}` carries significant illustrative weight in parables and teachings.
* **Divine Provision and Protection:** In the vineyard parables, the construction of a **tower** is part of the owner’s thorough preparation, symbolizing the care and resources invested in his property ([[Matthew 21:33]], [[Mark 12:1]]).
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** The example of a man building a **tower** serves as a direct metaphor for the commitment required to follow Christ. It is a serious undertaking that must be started with full awareness of the cost [[Luke 14:28]].
* **A Call to Universal Repentance:** The collapse of the **tower** of Siloam is used to challenge the assumption that tragedy befalls only the worst sinners, turning a real-world event into a lesson that all must repent [[Luke 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **pýrgos** `{{G4444}}` functions as more than a simple architectural term. While always referring to a physical **tower**, it is used symbolically to teach profound lessons. It stands as a figure for preparedness, a metaphor for the high cost of commitment, and the subject of a stark reminder about human frailty and the need for repentance.
TRV