### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sōtēría**, represented by `{{G4991}}`, means **rescue or safety**, both in a physical and moral sense. It is most frequently translated as **salvation**, but can also refer to deliverance or health. Appearing **45 times** across **43 unique verses**, it is a central concept in the New Testament, describing God's deliverance of humanity from sin and its consequences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4991}}` is presented as an exclusive act of God. It is explicitly stated that there is **salvation** in no one else but Christ, as there is no other name given among men by which we must be saved [[Acts 4:12]]. This **salvation** is described as the **gospel**'s purpose, being the power of God available to everyone who believes [[Romans 1:16]]. While it is a gift, believers are instructed to "work out" their own **salvation** with fear and trembling, indicating a responsive and ongoing aspect to this deliverance [[Philippians 2:12]]. It can refer to a present reality, as when Jesus declared that **salvation** had come to a house that day [[Luke 19:9]], and also a future hope that is nearer now than when we first believed [[Romans 13:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of `{{G4991}}`:
* `{{G4982}}` **sṓzō** (to save, i.e. deliver or protect): This is the verb form that describes the action of bringing about salvation. It is used in the declaration that there is no other name given by which we must **be saved** [[Acts 4:12]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (persuasion, i.e. credence... reliance upon Christ for salvation): This is the essential means by which salvation is received. Believers are kept by God's power through **faith** unto **salvation** [[1 Peter 1:5]], and the holy scriptures make one wise unto **salvation** through **faith** in Christ Jesus [[2 Timothy 3:15]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (force... specially, miraculous power): This highlights the divine force behind salvation. The gospel is the **power** of God unto **salvation** for everyone who believes [[Romans 1:16]].
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): This is the message that proclaims salvation. It is called the **gospel** of your **salvation** [[Ephesians 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4991}}` is foundational to Christian belief.
* **Divine Source:** Salvation originates entirely from God. It is attributed to "our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb" [[Revelation 7:10]]. Christ is identified as the author of eternal **salvation** [[Hebrews 5:9]] and the captain of our **salvation**, made perfect through sufferings [[Hebrews 2:10]].
* **Means of Attainment:** It is received through faith and repentance. Godly sorrow leads to repentance and then to **salvation** [[2 Corinthians 7:10]]. Confession with the mouth and belief in the heart lead to **salvation** [[Romans 10:10]].
* **Scope and Purpose:** Though it came from the Jews [[John 4:22]], salvation was sent to the Gentiles to provoke Israel to jealousy [[Romans 11:11]] and to be a light for salvation to the ends of the earth [[Acts 13:47]]. The ultimate end of faith is the **salvation** of souls [[1 Peter 1:9]].
* **Preservation and Hope:** This salvation includes being kept by God's power [[1 Peter 1:5]] and is the believer's hope, represented as a helmet [[1 Thessalonians 5:8]]. It is a "great **salvation**" which must not be neglected [[Hebrews 2:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4991}}` defines the complete rescue and deliverance provided by God through Jesus Christ. It is not merely a single event but an ongoing reality with a future fulfillment, secured by God's power and received through faith. It is the core of the gospel message, offering safety from sin and death and promising eternal glory. The term encapsulates the entire redemptive work of God for humanity.
TRV