probably strengthened from φράσσω; a signet (as fencing in or protecting from misappropriation); by implication, the stamp impressed (as a mark of privacy, or genuineness), literally or figuratively:--seal.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sphragís**, represented by `{{G4973}}`, is defined as a signet or stamp impressed as a mark of privacy or genuineness, whether literally or figuratively a **seal**. It appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its role in concepts of security, ownership, and authentication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4973}}` is most prominently featured in the book of Revelation, where a book is secured with seven **seals** [[Revelation 5:1]]. The progressive opening of these **seals** by the Lamb is central to the unfolding of divine judgment and purpose ([[Revelation 6:1]], 8:1). Beyond this apocalyptic imagery, the term is used to signify God's ownership and protection; those who have the **seal** of God on their foreheads are kept from harm [[Revelation 9:4]]. It also serves as a mark of authenticity. For Abraham, circumcision was a **seal** of the righteousness that comes by faith [[Romans 4:11]]. Paul similarly refers to the Corinthian believers as the **seal** of his apostleship, the genuine proof of his ministry [[1 Corinthians 9:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and function of a seal:
* `{{G2696}}` **katasphragízō** (to seal closely): This verb form shows the action of applying a seal. It is used to describe the book in the right hand of Him on the throne, which was **sealed** with seven seals [[Revelation 5:1]].
* `{{G4592}}` **sēmeîon** (sign, token): This word is used in parallel with `{{G4973}}` to describe circumcision as both a **sign** and a seal of faith's righteousness [[Romans 4:11]].
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to loose): As the direct counterpart to sealing, this word describes the action of breaking or undoing a seal. It is used repeatedly in the challenge to find one worthy to **loose** the seals of the book ([[Revelation 5:2]], 5:5).
* `{{G455}}` **anoígō** (to open up): Also used in connection with the seals in Revelation, this term describes the action that follows the loosening of the seals, as each one is **opened** to reveal its contents ([[Revelation 5:9]], 6:1).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4973}}` is significant, highlighting key doctrines of salvation and divine sovereignty.
* **Divine Ownership and Protection:** The seal is a mark of those who belong to God. This is stated in the foundational truth that "The Lord knoweth them that are his" [[2 Timothy 2:19]], and it is demonstrated when those with God's **seal** are protected from judgment [[Revelation 9:4]].
* **Authentication of Faith and Ministry:** The concept of a seal is used to validate what is genuine. It authenticates the righteousness Abraham possessed by **faith** [[Romans 4:11]] and serves as the proof of Paul’s apostleship in the lives of the believers [[1 Corinthians 9:2]].
* **Sovereign Authority and Revelation:** The sealed book in Revelation symbolizes God's sovereign and secured plan. No one is found worthy to open the book or **loose** its seals except the Lamb [[Revelation 5:2-5]], signifying that God's purposes are kept private until He chooses to reveal them through His Son.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4973}}` is far more than a simple impression on wax. It is a powerful biblical symbol of authentication, ownership, security, and authority. From the mark of righteousness by faith to the protected servants of God and the sovereign decrees sealed in heaven, **sphragís** illustrates how God secures, validates, and reveals His truth and His people according to His divine will.
TRV