### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asphalōs**, represented by `{{G806}}`, is an adverb that means to act **securely**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from ἀσφαλής, its meaning encompasses both literal security, as in being kept safely, and figurative certainty, as in knowing something assuredly without a doubt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{G806}}` is used to convey a high degree of certainty or security. In a literal sense, it describes the secure handling of prisoners. When Judas betrayed Jesus, he gave a token and instructed the guards to "lead him away **safely**" [[Mark 14:44]]. Likewise, after Paul and Silas were beaten with many stripes, the jailor was charged to keep them **safely** in prison [[Acts 16:23]]. Figuratively, the word is used to express undeniable truth. Peter declares to the house of Israel that they should "know **assuredly**" that God has made the crucified Jesus both Lord and Christ [[Acts 2:36]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G806}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know" (absolutely)): This verb is paired with `{{G806}}` to command an unwavering and certain knowledge of Jesus's lordship, urging people to **know** assuredly [[Acts 2:36]].
* `{{G5083}}` **tēréō** (to guard): This term, meaning to guard or detain in custody, is intensified by `{{G806}}` in the command for the jailor to **keep** the apostles safely [[Acts 16:23]].
* `{{G2902}}` **kratéō** (to use strength, i.e. seize or retain): This word for seizing or taking hold of someone precedes the instruction to lead Jesus away **safely**, emphasizing the secure nature of the arrest [[Mark 14:44]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G806}}` is seen in the contrast between human and divine security.
* **The World's Attempt at Security:** The commands to lead Jesus away **safely** [[Mark 14:44]] and to keep the apostles **safely** [[Acts 16:23]] represent humanity's effort to control and suppress God's plan through physical restraint.
* **The Certainty of God's Proclamation:** In contrast, the declaration that the house of Israel should know **assuredly** that Jesus is Lord and Christ establishes a spiritual security that cannot be contained by prisons or guards [[Acts 2:36]].
* **Foundation of Faith:** The use of "assuredly" underscores that the gospel message is not based on speculation but on a firm, secure reality established by God Himself, forming a reliable foundation for faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G806}}` provides a powerful concept of security. While it can describe the literal, physical act of ensuring a person does not escape, its greater weight is found in the figurative sense of spiritual and intellectual certainty. It illustrates the difference between the world's fragile attempts to enforce its will and the unshakable, assured truth of God's redemptive plan in Jesus Christ.
TRV