from σφραγίς; to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest:--(set a, set to) seal up, stop.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sphragízō**, represented by `{{G4972}}`, means to **stamp** with a signet or private mark. It appears **29 times** across **17 unique verses**, signifying concepts of security, preservation, secrecy, or attestation in both literal and figurative contexts. Its core meaning revolves around applying a mark of ownership or authority to secure, protect, or validate something.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G4972}}` applies to several key actions. In a literal sense, it is used to make something physically secure, such as when a watch made the sepulchre sure by **sealing** the stone [[Matthew 27:66]]. It is also used to secure the bottomless pit after an angel **set a seal** upon it [[Revelation 20:3]]. Figuratively, the term signifies divine authentication; God the Father **sealed** the Son of man [[John 6:27]], and a person who receives His testimony has **set to his seal** that God is true [[John 3:33]]. Another figurative use is for concealment, as when John is commanded to **Seal up** the things uttered by the seven thunders [[Revelation 10:4]], which is later contrasted with the command to **Seal not** the sayings of the prophecy in the book of Revelation [[Revelation 22:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of sealing:
* `{{G2808}}` **kleíō** (to close... shut (up)): This word is used alongside **sphragízō** to describe the securing of the bottomless pit, which was shut up and then sealed [[Revelation 20:3]], linking the physical act of closing with the authoritative act of sealing.
* `{{G805}}` **asphalízō** (to render secure): This term is used to describe making the sepulchre sure, an act that involved **sealing** the stone [[Matthew 27:66]]. It highlights the role of a seal in ensuring security.
* `{{G728}}` **arrhabṓn** (a pledge... earnest): Being **sealed** by God is directly connected to receiving the **earnest** of the Spirit in our hearts [[2 Corinthians 1:22]]. The seal is thus part of the pledge or down payment of a believer's inheritance.
* `{{G5420}}` **phrássō** (to fence or inclose... stop): This word is combined with **sphragízō** in the phrase "no man shall **stop** me of this boasting" [[2 Corinthians 11:10]], showing a specialized figurative use related to preventing or closing off an action.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4972}}` is primarily seen in its application to believers and divine revelation.
* **Divine Authentication:** The act of sealing serves as God's mark of approval and truth. God the Father **sealed** the Son of man, validating His authority and mission [[John 6:27]]. When a person believes, they in effect attest that God is true [[John 3:33]].
* **Spiritual Preservation and Ownership:** Believers are **sealed** by the Holy Spirit, which signifies their security in salvation and God's ownership over them. This seal is given after believing the gospel of salvation [[Ephesians 1:13]] and preserves them **unto** the day of redemption [[Ephesians 4:30]]. This is vividly pictured in the sealing of God's servants in their foreheads for protection [[Revelation 7:3]].
* **Concealment and Revelation:** A seal can be used to keep a message secret until the appointed time. John was commanded to **Seal up** what the thunders uttered [[Revelation 10:4]], while later being told to **Seal not** the words of prophecy because the time was at hand [[Revelation 22:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4972}}` is a powerful word that moves from the literal act of **sealing** a stone on a tomb [[Matthew 27:66]] or securing a delivery of fruit [[Romans 15:28]] to the profound spiritual reality of being **sealed** by the Holy Spirit. It illustrates divine authority, the security of the believer, and the careful stewardship of revelation. This term is key to understanding God's mark of ownership and the preservation of His people.
TRV