### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stērigmós**, represented by `{{G4740}}`, denotes a figurative **stability** or **stedfastness**. It is derived from the word στηρίζω. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4740}}` occurs in [[2 Peter 3:17]], where believers are warned to "beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own **stedfastness**." In this context, steadfastness is presented as a personal, established state of spiritual stability that can be lost. It is something that must be actively guarded against the influence of false teachings and lawless people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context clarify the nature of this stability and the threats against it:
* `{{G5442}}` **phylássō** (beware): This word means "to watch, i.e. be on guard." It is the command given to believers to actively preserve their steadfastness [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* `{{G4879}}` **synapágō** (being led away): Defined as to "transport with (seduce, passively, yield)," this describes the process by which one's stability is undermined [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* `{{G4106}}` **plánē** (error): Meaning "a straying from orthodoxy or piety," this is the specific danger that threatens believers and can cause them to lose their footing [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* `{{G113}}` **áthesmos** (wicked): This term for "lawless" identifies the source of the deceptive error that believers must guard against [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* `{{G1601}}` **ekpíptō** (fall from): Meaning "to drop away," this describes the consequence of failing to remain steadfast, resulting in a loss of one's spiritual position [[2 Peter 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4740}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, which serves as a critical warning.
* **A Condition to Maintain:** Steadfastness is not a permanent, unassailable state but a spiritual condition that requires active preservation. Believers are called to "beware" `{{G5442}}` in order to keep it [[2 Peter 3:17]].
* **External Threats:** This stability is threatened by external forces, specifically the "error" `{{G4106}}` promoted by the "wicked" `{{G113}}`.
* **Personal Responsibility:** The verse warns against being "led away" `{{G4879}}` and losing one's "own" steadfastness, emphasizing personal accountability in maintaining a firm spiritual foundation. The consequence is to "fall from" `{{G1601}}` this state of stability.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{G4740}}` appears only once, its meaning is profound. **Stērigmós** represents a crucial spiritual stability that is the target of corrupting influences. Its singular use in scripture is a concise and powerful exhortation for believers to remain vigilant and guard their foundation in the faith, lest they be carried away by error and fall.
TRV