### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phýlax**, represented by `{{G5441}}`, denotes a **watcher** or **sentry**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is tied to the act of guarding, specifically in the context of a prison or place of confinement, where it is translated as **keeper**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5441}}` is used exclusively in the book of Acts to describe prison guards. The **keepers** are found **standing** guard outside the prison doors, which were shut with all **safety** [[Acts 5:23]]. In the account of Peter's imprisonment by Herod, **keepers** were stationed before the door of the **prison** [[Acts 12:6]]. This role carried immense responsibility, as Herod later examined the **keepers** and commanded that they should be put to death after Peter's miraculous escape [[Acts 12:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role of a **keeper**:
* `{{G1201}}` **desmōtḗrion** (a place of bondage, i.e. a dungeon:--prison): This term defines the location a **keeper** is assigned to guard. The **keepers** in [[Acts 5:23]] were watching over the **prison** which was found securely shut.
* `{{G4757}}` **stratiṓtēs** (a camper-out, i.e. a (common) warrior (literally or figuratively):--soldier): This word refers to the armed guards who often worked with the **keepers**. In [[Acts 12:6]], Peter was bound between two **soldiers** while **keepers** guarded the door.
* `{{G5083}}` **tēréō** (to guard... to detain (in custody...)...keep(- er), (pre-, re-)serve, watch): This verb describes the primary function of a **keeper**. It is used in [[Acts 12:6]] to state that the **keepers** "kept the prison".
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (to stand...): This verb describes the posture of the guards on duty. The **keepers** were found **standing** before the prison doors [[Acts 5:23]].
### Theological Significance
The role of `{{G5441}}` illustrates a significant theological contrast between human authority and divine power.
* **Supremacy of Divine Intervention:** The presence of **keepers** highlights the futility of human efforts to obstruct God's purposes. Despite the **keepers** being on watch, the apostles are miraculously freed from prisons that were found shut with all **safety** [[Acts 5:23]].
* **Human Security vs. God's Plan:** The narrative emphasizes the layers of human security, with **keepers** at the door and **soldiers** chained to the prisoner [[Acts 12:6]], only to show that no physical guard can prevent God's plan from unfolding.
* **Consequences of Opposition:** The fate of the **keepers** under Herod serves as a stark warning. When their efforts to contain God's servant failed, they were examined and commanded to be put to death, demonstrating the grave consequences for those who stand in opposition to divine will [[Acts 12:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5441}}` **phýlax** is a specific term for a **watcher** or **sentry**, used exclusively in the context of prison guards in the book of Acts. While its literal meaning is simple, its narrative function is profound. The role of the **keeper** is consistently used to establish the power of human authority, which is then dramatically superseded by divine intervention, illustrating that no earthly guard or prison can hold back the work of God.
TRV