### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **sōtḗrion**, represented by `{{G4992}}`, refers to the concrete reality of **salvation**, often as a defender or a defense. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Rather than an abstract concept, `{{G4992}}` denotes something tangible and manifest that provides deliverance and protection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4992}}` is presented as a visible and proclaimed reality. It is something that can be seen with one's own **eyes** `{{G3788}}`, a promise fulfilled when Simeon declares he has seen God's **salvation** [[Luke 2:30]]. This visibility is extended to all humanity, with the prophecy that "all **flesh** `{{G4561}}` shall see the **salvation** of God" [[Luke 3:6]]. It is also described as a divine provision that is actively **sent** `{{G649}}` to the **Gentiles** `{{G1484}}` [[Acts 28:28]] and as a piece of spiritual armor, "the helmet of **salvation**" [[Ephesians 6:17]], which believers are to **take** `{{G1209}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of `{{G4992}}` as a tangible deliverance:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (properly, to see; by implication, to know): This word underscores that salvation is a perceptible reality. It is used when Simeon exclaims that his eyes "have **seen** thy salvation" [[Luke 2:30]].
* `{{G649}}` **apostéllō** (set apart, to send out): This emphasizes that salvation is not a passive state but a divine mission from God to humanity. It is declared that the salvation of God is "**sent** unto the Gentiles" [[Acts 28:28]].
* `{{G4030}}` **perikephalaía** (a helmet): This term illustrates the defensive quality of salvation. Believers are exhorted to take the "**helmet** of salvation" `{{G4992}}` as part of their spiritual armor [[Ephesians 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4992}}` is centered on the manifestation and application of God's saving work.
* **A Tangible Revelation:** Salvation is not an abstract hope but a revealed reality. The **grace** `{{G5485}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` that brings **salvation** `{{G4992}}` has **appeared** `{{G2014}}` to all **men** `{{G444}}` [[Titus 2:11]]. It is something that can be seen by all **flesh** `{{G4561}}` [[Luke 3:6]].
* **A Proclaimed Mission:** God's salvation is actively sent out. Paul makes it **known** `{{G1110}}` that this **salvation** `{{G4992}}` is **sent** `{{G649}}` to the **Gentiles** `{{G1484}}`, who will in turn **hear** `{{G191}}` it [[Acts 28:28]].
* **A Spiritual Defense:** `{{G4992}}` functions as a vital protection for the believer. It is described as the **helmet** `{{G4030}}` of **salvation** `{{G4992}}`, which, along with the **sword** `{{G3162}}` of the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}`, equips a person for spiritual conflict [[Ephesians 6:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4992}}` presents salvation not as a mere concept, but as a concrete, observable, and defensive gift from God. It is a reality that has **appeared** `{{G2014}}` in the world, a message that is **sent** `{{G649}}` to all nations, and a **helmet** `{{G4030}}` that protects the believer. The word **sōtḗrion** thus captures the tangible and active nature of God's saving power.
TRV