### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phylaktḗrion**, represented by `{{G5440}}`, refers to a **guard-case** or **phylactery**, a small case used for wearing slips of Scripture. According to usage statistics, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G5440}}` is found in a direct critique of performative righteousness. In [[Matthew 23:5]], it is stated that religious leaders "make broad their **phylacteries**" for the specific purpose of being "seen of men" [[Matthew 23:5]]. The context presents this action not as an act of piety, but as one part of a broader effort to display religious devotion outwardly, alongside enlarging the borders of their garments.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its only context in [[Matthew 23:5]] help clarify its usage:
* `{{G4115}}` **platýnō** (make broad, enlarge): This verb is directly applied to the phylacteries, indicating a deliberate act of widening them to make them more conspicuous.
* `{{G3170}}` **megalýnō** (enlarge, magnify, shew great): Used in parallel with making phylacteries broad, this term describes the enlarging of garment borders, reinforcing the theme of ostentatious display.
* `{{G2300}}` **theáomai** (behold, look upon, see): This word reveals the motivation behind the action. The works are performed specifically "to be seen of men" [[Matthew 23:5]], highlighting the desire for an audience.
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This term establishes that wearing an enlarged phylactery is classified as one of the "works" done for public approval, rather than as a sincere act of faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5440}}` is derived entirely from its critical context in [[Matthew 23:5]].
* **External vs. Internal Piety:** The use of phylacteries in this verse serves as a primary example of outward religious display that lacks corresponding inner devotion. The focus is on acts done to be "seen of men" [[Matthew 23:5]].
* **Corruption of a Religious Symbol:** A phylactery, intended to be a personal "guard-case" for remembering scripture, is transformed into a tool for self-aggrandizement. The act of making it broad signifies the corruption of its purpose.
* **A Warning Against Hypocrisy:** The verse uses the visible act of enlarging phylacteries as a tangible illustration of religious hypocrisy, where the symbols of faith are leveraged for personal honor rather than for honoring God.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G5440}}` **phylaktḗrion** appears only once, its meaning is powerful and specific. It is not just a neutral term for a religious artifact but is used exclusively to illustrate the problem of performative righteousness. It serves as a stark biblical warning against performing religious "works" for the sake of human praise rather than as an expression of genuine faith.
TRV