### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **boḗtheia**, represented by `{{G996}}`, means **aid** or **help**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a specific literal meaning of a rope or chain used for frapping, or securing, a vessel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{G996}}` in scripture provide a sharp contrast between literal and spiritual aid. In a purely physical sense, it describes the "**helps**" used by sailors for undergirding their ship during a storm, highlighting a desperate act of preservation [[Acts 27:17]]. Theologically, the word is used to describe the divine assistance a believer can find, with the promise of receiving "grace to **help** in time of need" by approaching God's throne [[Hebrews 4:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which this help is given or received:
* `{{G5269}}` **hypozṓnnymi** (to gird under): This term is used in direct conjunction with `{{G996}}` in its literal sense, describing the act of **undergirding** the ship with cables to provide structural aid [[Acts 27:17]].
* `{{G4334}}` **prosérchomai** (to approach): This word defines the action required to receive spiritual help. Believers are instructed to **come** boldly to the throne of grace to find aid [[Hebrews 4:16]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (graciousness): This is the source of divine help. The aid found is a form of **grace**, obtained at the "throne of **grace**" [[Hebrews 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G996}}` is centered on the nature of divine assistance.
* **Tangible vs. Spiritual Aid:** The word’s dual usage illustrates that God’s help can be both a practical, physical intervention, like the ropes used to save a ship, and a spiritual one accessed through faith ([[Acts 27:17]], [[Hebrews 4:16]]).
* **Accessible Help:** Spiritual aid is not distant or unattainable. It is found when one chooses to "come boldly unto the throne of grace," indicating that access is granted through a deliberate act of approaching God [[Hebrews 4:16]].
* **Timely Provision:** The promise is specifically for "grace to help in time of need" [[Hebrews 4:16]]. This frames divine aid not as a general blessing but as a targeted, sufficient provision for moments of specific crisis or need.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G996}}` encapsulates the concept of help in both its most physical and spiritual forms. From the literal ropes securing a storm-tossed vessel to the divine grace that aids a believer in need, the word illustrates a complete picture of support. It shows that whether the need is for physical preservation or spiritual strength, help is a provision made available for critical moments.
TRV