### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asphalízō**, represented by `{{G805}}`, means **to render secure** or to **make fast (sure)**. It appears 6 times in 4 unique verses, primarily conveying an action of making something physically secure, either through confinement or by guarding it against interference.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G805}}` is used in two distinct contexts of security. In Matthew, it describes the efforts to secure the tomb of Jesus. The chief priests and Pharisees request that the sepulchre be **made sure** [[Matthew 27:64]], a command Pilate grants by telling them to **make it as sure** as they can [[Matthew 27:65]]. This culminates in the action of the guards who **made** the sepulchre **sure** [[Matthew 27:66]]. The second context is one of imprisonment, where a jailer in Acts, having received his prisoners, **made** their feet **fast** in the stocks [[Acts 16:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the methods and objects involved in making something secure:
* `{{G2892}}` **koustōdía**: A word of Latin origin for **"custody", i.e. a Roman sentry:--watch**. This was the force used to **make** the sepulchre **sure** [[Matthew 27:66]].
* `{{G3586}}` **xýlon**: Meaning **timber... a stick, club or tree or other wooden article or substance:--staff, stocks, tree, wood**. This refers to the **stocks** used to **make fast** the prisoners' feet [[Acts 16:24]].
* `{{G4972}}` **sphragízō**: Meaning **to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation... to attest:--(set a, set to) seal up, stop**. This action was performed along with setting a watch to make the tomb secure [[Matthew 27:66]].
* `{{G906}}` **bállō**: A verb meaning **to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense):--...cast (out),...put (up)...**. This describes the initial act of the jailer who **thrust** the prisoners into the inner prison before securing them [[Acts 16:24]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G805}}` carries significant conceptual weight, especially in its application to the events surrounding the resurrection.
* **Human Authority vs. Divine Power:** The repeated use of **asphalízō** in Matthew's account highlights the extent of human effort to prevent the resurrection of Jesus. The authorities command [[Matthew 27:64]], permit [[Matthew 27:65]], and execute the act of making the tomb **sure** [[Matthew 27:66]].
* **Literal and Physical Restraint:** The word denotes a tangible, physical act of securing. This is seen most directly when the jailer **made** the feet of his prisoners **fast** in stocks, an instrument of confinement and discomfort [[Acts 16:24]].
* **The Irony of Security:** The act of making the tomb **sure** becomes a powerful testament to the miracle it was meant to stop. By officially securing the sepulchre with a seal and a Roman **watch** `{{G2892}}`, the authorities inadvertently verified that the tomb was empty due to divine intervention, not human interference.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G805}}` is a precise term for enforcing security. While its usage is infrequent, it is applied in pivotal moments. It describes both the mundane act of imprisoning individuals in stocks and the historic, yet ultimately futile, attempt to secure Jesus's tomb. In doing so, the word underscores a central biblical theme: the limitations of human power and assurance when confronted with the unshakeable power of God.
TRV