from a primary (contraction for obsolete , "safe"); to save, i.e. deliver or protect (literally or figuratively):--heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sṓzō**, represented by `{{G4982}}`, means **to save, deliver, or protect**, both literally and figuratively. It appears **118 times** across **103 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage ranges from physical healing and preservation from harm to the spiritual concept of salvation from sin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4982}}` is used in multiple significant contexts. It describes the core mission of Jesus, who came "to seek and to **save** that which was lost" [[Luke 19:10]] and to **save** his people from their sins [[Matthew 1:21]]. The word is also frequently used for physical healing, as when Jesus tells a woman her faith has "made thee **whole**" [[Mark 5:34]]. Furthermore, it denotes deliverance from immediate physical danger, such as Peter crying out to be **saved** from sinking in the water [[Matthew 14:30]] or the hope of being **saved** from a storm at sea [[Acts 27:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify and expand upon the concept of salvation and deliverance:
* `{{G4991}}` **sōtēría** (rescue or safety): As the noun form, this word refers to salvation itself. It is used in the declaration that there is **salvation** in no one else but Christ [[Acts 4:12]].
* `{{G4506}}` **rhýomai** (to rescue): This term emphasizes deliverance from danger or evil. It is used alongside **sṓzō**, as in the promise that the Lord will **deliver** and **preserve** believers [[2 Timothy 4:18]].
* `{{G622}}` **apóllymi** (to destroy fully): This word is often used as a direct contrast to **sṓzō**. The Son of man came not to **destroy** men's lives, but to **save** them [[Luke 9:56]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): This refers to the state of being that results from salvation. Those who are reconciled to God shall be **saved** by his **life** [[Romans 5:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4982}}` is foundational to Christian doctrine. It defines the very essence of the gospel message.
* **Salvation by Grace:** Scripture emphasizes that being **saved** is a gift of God's **grace** `{{G5485}}` and **mercy** `{{G1656}}`, not a result of one's own works or righteousness [[Ephesians 2:8]], [[Titus 3:5]].
* **The Means of Salvation:** While a gift, salvation requires a response. It is linked to belief [[Acts 16:31]], faith [[Luke 7:50]], confessing the Lord Jesus [[Romans 10:9]], calling on the name of the Lord [[Romans 10:13]], and enduring to the end [[Matthew 10:22]].
* **The Scope of Salvation:** The term encompasses the whole person. It is the **engrafted** `{{G1721}}` **word** `{{G3056}}` that is able to **save** souls [[James 1:21]], deliverance from the wrath to come [[Romans 5:9]], and physical healing [[James 5:15]].
* **The Exclusivity of Christ:** The New Testament is clear that salvation is uniquely found through Jesus Christ. There is no other name given among men by which we must be **saved** [[Acts 4:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4982}}` is a rich and vital term that conveys deliverance at every level. From being made **whole** from a physical ailment to being **saved** from eternal condemnation, the word points to a rescue that only God can provide. It illustrates that salvation is a comprehensive act of God's grace, received through faith, that results in deliverance, preservation, and eternal life.
TRV