### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asphalḗs**, represented by `{{G804}}`, conveys the idea of being **secure**, **certain**, or **sure**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a negative particle and a word meaning "to fail," its core meaning is something that is reliable, not liable to fall, and trustworthy, whether in a literal or figurative sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G804}}` is used to express both spiritual and practical assurance. Theologically, it describes the believer's hope as an anchor for the soul, which is both **sure** and stedfast [[Hebrews 6:19]]. It is also used in a practical context, as when Paul explains that to **write** the same things to the Philippians is **safe** for them [[Philippians 3:1]]. In the book of Acts, the word signifies a need for factual **certainty**, particularly when Roman officials sought to know the truth about the accusations against Paul amidst a **tumult** [[Acts 21:34]] and had no **certain** thing to write to a higher authority [[Acts 25:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of security and knowledge:
* `{{G949}}` **bébaios** (stedfast): Often paired with **asphalḗs**, this word means stable or firm. Its use alongside `{{G804}}` reinforces the idea of unshakable reliability, as when hope is described as both **sure** and **stedfast** [[Hebrews 6:19]].
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): This verb is connected to the desire for **certainty** `{{G804}}`. An official could not **know** the **certainty** of a situation due to a riot, highlighting the link between knowledge and a secure understanding [[Acts 21:34]].
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): The act of writing is presented as a way to establish what is **safe** or **certain**. Paul writing to the brethren is described as **safe** [[Philippians 3:1]], while Festus lacks a **certain** matter to **write** about Paul [[Acts 25:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G804}}` is focused on the believer's firm foundation.
* **An Anchor for the Soul:** The most prominent theological use of `{{G804}}` is to describe hope as an **anchor** `{{G45}}` for the **soul** `{{G5590}}`. This hope is not uncertain but is **sure** and enters into that which is **within** the **veil** `{{G2665}}`, signifying a secure connection to God's presence [[Hebrews 6:19]].
* **Safety in Apostolic Teaching:** The word establishes the security found in sound doctrine. Paul's repetition of his teachings is not **grievous** but is intended to be **safe** for the believers, guarding them in their faith [[Philippians 3:1]].
* **The Basis of Certainty:** The use of `{{G804}}` in Acts highlights that true understanding must be based on **certainty**, not on the confusion of a **tumult** `{{G2351}}` or vague accusations. An official sought **certainty** before proceeding, showing the importance of a secure footing in facts [[Acts 22:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G804}}` **asphalḗs** encapsulates a crucial biblical concept of security. Though used sparingly, it carries significant meaning, ranging from the need for factual **certainty** in human affairs to the profound spiritual assurance a believer possesses in God. It demonstrates the value of a foundation that is secure and cannot fail, whether in matters of truth or the hope that anchors the soul.
TRV