probably from σύρω through its congener (to fasten; akin to αἱρέομαι); a chain (as binding or drawing):--chain.
Transliteration:seirá
Pronunciation:si-rah'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4577 (σειρά, *seirá*) fundamentally means "a chain." Its etymological roots are suggested to be from σύρω (syrō), `{{G4951}}`, meaning "to draw" or "to drag," and possibly akin to αἱρέομαι (haireomai), `{{G138}}`, meaning "to take" or "to choose," in the sense of grasping or seizing. This etymological background reinforces the core semantic range of σειρά as something that binds, fastens, or draws together, implying a strong and secure form of restraint. Unlike a simple rope, a chain denotes durability, strength, and an inherent difficulty, if not impossibility, of being broken or escaped. Thus, σειρά conveys the concept of secure confinement, unbreakable bonds, or inescapable attachment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4577 (σειρά) appears only once in the New Testament, in a passage of profound theological significance:
* **[[2 Peter 2:4]]**: "For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment..."
* In this context, σειραῖς ζόφου ταρταρώσας (committed to chains of gloomy darkness) describes the fate of the fallen angels. These are clearly not literal, physical chains, but rather a vivid metaphor for their inescapable spiritual and existential confinement. The "chains" signify an unbreakable, divinely imposed bond, an imprisonment from which there is no escape until the appointed time of final judgment.
* The accompanying phrase "gloomy darkness" (ζόφος, `{{G2217}}`) further emphasizes the nature of their prison: a place of spiritual obscurity, despair, and separation from divine light. The use of σειρά here underscores the absolute power and unwavering justice of God in restraining evil, even at the highest angelic level, until the day of reckoning. It highlights a state of being bound by their sin and God's sovereign decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **σύρω (syrō)**: `{{G4951}}` - "to draw, drag." As the suggested root, this word reinforces the idea of being pulled, held, or constrained, which is inherent in the concept of a chain.
* **δεσμός (desmos)**: `{{G1199}}` - "a bond, fetter, chain." This is a more common Greek word for "chain" or "bond" in the New Testament, often referring to literal physical imprisonment (e.g., [[Acts 12:6]]). While δεσμός can also be used metaphorically, σειρά in [[2 Peter 2:4]] is exclusively metaphorical, emphasizing an unbreakable spiritual confinement.
* **ἁλυς (halys)**: `{{G254}}` - "a chain." Similar to δεσμός, this word also denotes a physical chain, as seen in [[Mark 5:3]] describing the demon-possessed man. The distinction of σειρά lies in its unique metaphorical application in the New Testament.
* **ζόφος (zophos)**: `{{G2217}}` - "gloom, darkness." This word is directly coupled with σειρά in [[2 Peter 2:4]], forming the powerful image of "chains of gloomy darkness." This pairing emphasizes the nature of the confinement as a spiritual prison devoid of light, hope, or freedom.
* **Confinement/Imprisonment:** The broader biblical concept of being bound or held, whether physically (as in human prisons) or spiritually (as in the bondage of sin or demonic influence), is a recurring theme that often signifies judgment, discipline, or divine control.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of G4577 (σειρά) in [[2 Peter 2:4]] carries immense theological weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty over Evil:** The "chains of gloomy darkness" vividly illustrate God's absolute and unwavering control over sin and rebellion, even among the most powerful created beings. The fallen angels are not merely banished but are "committed to chains," signifying a deliberate, secure, and inescapable act of divine judgment. This demonstrates that no creature, however mighty, can escape God's authority.
* **Surety of Judgment:** The metaphorical "chains" serve as a profound theological guarantee that divine judgment is certain and unavoidable. These angels are held in an unbreakable spiritual prison, awaiting their final and just reckoning. This concept underscores the certainty and inevitability of God's justice for all who rebel against Him.
* **Metaphor for Spiritual Confinement:** σειρά functions as a potent metaphor for a state of spiritual and existential imprisonment. It speaks to a condition of being utterly bound by one's sin and rebellion, cut off from divine light, grace, and freedom. This is not a temporary detention but a secure holding until the full measure of divine wrath is poured out.
* **Warning to the Ungodly:** In the broader context of 2 Peter, the example of the angels' secure judgment serves as a stark warning to ungodly individuals who deny the Lord and live in depravity. Just as the angels are securely bound, so too will unrighteous humans face an inescapable judgment and a similar spiritual confinement.
### Summary
The Greek word G4577 (σειρά), meaning "a chain," draws its semantic force from roots suggesting "to draw" or "to fasten." Its sole New Testament appearance in [[2 Peter 2:4]] is highly significant, describing the fallen angels as being "committed to chains of gloomy darkness." In this context, σειρά is not a literal physical chain but a powerful, evocative metaphor for an unbreakable, divinely imposed spiritual confinement. This unique usage underscores God's absolute sovereignty and justice, demonstrating His secure restraint of evil and the certainty of future judgment. The "chains of gloomy darkness" serve as a solemn warning, highlighting the inescapable nature of divine reckoning for those who rebel against God, and affirming God's ultimate and unyielding control over all creation.
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