### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ánkyra**, represented by `{{G45}}`, is the word for **anchor**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition, "an 'anchor' (as crooked)," points to its function as a tool for securing a vessel, a meaning that is applied both literally and figuratively in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G45}}` appears exclusively in the narrative of the shipwreck in Acts. Amid a storm, the sailors, **fearing** they would crash upon **rocks**, **cast** four **anchors** to hold the ship steady [[Acts 27:29]]. The word appears again when some shipmen feigned that they would **cast anchors** from the foreship as a ruse to escape [[Acts 27:30]]. Finally, when they decided to make for the shore, they **had taken up the anchors** and committed the ship to the sea [[Acts 27:40]]. The word is also used metaphorically in Hebrews, where hope is described as an **anchor** of the soul [[Hebrews 6:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the contexts in which **ánkyra** is used:
* `{{G4496}}` **rhíptō** (to fling): This verb is used to describe the physical action of deploying the anchors. The shipmen **cast** four anchors from the stern to secure the vessel [[Acts 27:29]].
* `{{G804}}` **asphalḗs** (secure... safe, sure): This adjective describes the quality of the spiritual anchor. In Hebrews, hope is described as an anchor for the soul that is **sure**, providing safety and certainty [[Hebrews 6:19]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This word defines the unique action of the soul's anchor. Unlike a physical anchor, this hope **entereth** into the place "within the **veil**," connecting the believer directly to God's presence [[Hebrews 6:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G45}}` is drawn entirely from its use as a powerful metaphor.
* **Hope as a Stabilizing Force:** `{{G45}}` is used to define hope as "an **anchor** of the soul," a force that keeps a believer from being driven off course by life's trials [[Hebrews 6:19]].
* **Security in God's Promise:** This anchor is described as both **sure** `{{G804}}` and **stedfast** `{{G949}}`, emphasizing the reliability and stability that Christian hope provides.
* **Access to the Divine:** The anchor of hope does not descend into the sea but **entereth** into that which is within the **veil** `{{G2665}}`, signifying that a believer's security is fastened to the very presence of God in the holiest place.
### Summary
In summary, **ánkyra** is a word with both a practical, nautical meaning and a rich, theological application. While its literal use in Acts demonstrates its function in providing physical stability against a storm, its metaphorical use in Hebrews elevates it to a symbol of the believer's hope. It illustrates that this hope is not merely a passive wish but a **sure** and **stedfast** connection that secures the soul to the unchanging reality of God's presence.
TRV