### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stégē**, represented by `{{G4721}}`, refers to the **roof** of a building. It is a specific term, defined as a "thatch" or "deck" of a building. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each of its occurrences significant in context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4721}}` is used in two key accounts. In both Matthew and Luke, a centurion expresses his unworthiness to have Jesus come under his **roof**, demonstrating a profound faith that does not require physical presence for healing ([[Matthew 8:8]], [[Luke 7:6]]). In a separate event in Mark's gospel, a **roof** becomes a point of access when a crowd prevents friends from bringing a paralyzed man to Jesus. In their determination, they uncovered the **roof** where Jesus was, broke it up, and lowered the man down to be healed [[Mark 2:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{G4721}}` is used:
* `{{G648}}` **apostegázō** (to unroof): This word is used directly with **stégē**, describing the action taken to **uncover** the roof to get to Jesus [[Mark 2:4]].
* `{{G1846}}` **exorýssō** (to dig out, remove roofing): This action immediately follows the uncovering of the roof, as the men had to **break it up** to create an opening [[Mark 2:4]].
* `{{G5465}}` **chaláō** (to lower): This describes the result of breaking open the roof, as the men were able to **let down** the bed with the paralytic on it [[Mark 2:4]].
* `{{G1543}}` **hekatontárchēs** (centurion): This is the title of the man who speaks of his **roof** as the boundary of his home, which he feels unworthy for Jesus to cross ([[Matthew 8:8]], [[Luke 7:6]]).
* `{{G3614}}` **oikía** (an abode, home, house): The **roof** is a component of the **house**, which is mentioned as the location the centurion did not want Jesus to enter [[Luke 7:6]].
* `{{G2895}}` **krabbatos** (a mattress): This refers to the **bed** that was lowered through the opened roof, carrying the sick man to Jesus [[Mark 2:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4721}}` is found in its symbolic function within its narrative contexts.
* **A Symbol of Home and Humility:** For the centurion, the **roof** represents his entire home and personal space. His statement, "I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my **roof**," is an expression of deep humility and respect for Jesus's authority [[Luke 7:6]].
* **An Obstacle Overcome by Faith:** For the friends of the paralytic, the **roof** is a physical barrier. Their willingness to **uncover** and **break up** the roof demonstrates a desperate and active faith that refuses to be hindered by conventional obstacles [[Mark 2:4]].
* **A Point of Divine Access:** The act of opening the **roof** transforms it from a barrier into a direct entryway for someone to encounter Jesus. It illustrates that extraordinary measures are sometimes necessary to bring those in need to the source of healing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4721}}` is more than just an architectural feature. While it literally means **roof**, its few appearances in scripture give it significant weight. It serves as a powerful symbol of a person's private domain in the context of humility and faith, as shown by the centurion. It also functions as a literal and figurative barrier that, when overcome by determined faith, becomes the very means of accessing the healing power of Jesus.
TRV