φυλάσσω
phulassō
to keep/guard: observe
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word φυλάσσω (phulassō) means "to keep" or "guard," and its core function is to observe or watch over something. This verb is linked to the semantic domain of Cognition & Perception, indicating that its primary role is to engage our senses and attention. This word is used 11 times in the Bible, demonstrating its importance in various contexts. The range of usage for φυλάσσω extends from literal guarding, such as watching over a temple (Matthew 27:36), to figurative guarding, such as observing the Lord's commands (Luke 11:28). This verb also connotes a sense of careful attention, as in keeping the word or faith (Mark 13:34). The significance of φυλάσσω lies in its association with mindfulness and awareness. To "keep" or "guard" something implies being actively attentive to it, whether physically or spiritually. This verb serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and focused, whether it's in our personal lives, relationships, or in our connection with God.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
11 total occurrences across the text
The young man said to him, “All these things I have observed from my youth. What do I still lack?”
Mark 10:20He said to him, “Teacher, I have observed all these things from my youth.”
Luke 11:28But he said, “On the contrary, blessed are those who hear the word of God, and keep it.”
Luke 18:21He said, “I have observed all these things from my youth up.”
John 12:47If anyone listens to my sayings, and doesn’t believe, I don’t judge him. For I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
Acts 7:53You received the law as it was ordained by angels, and didn’t keep it!”
Acts 16:4As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered the decrees to them to keep which had been ordained by the apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem.
Acts 21:24Take them and purify yourself with them, and pay their expenses for them, that they may shave their heads. Then all will know that there is no truth in the things that they have been informed about you, but that you yourself also walk keeping the law.
Romans 2:26If therefore the uncircumcised keep the ordinances of the law, won’t his uncircumcision be accounted as circumcision?
1 Timothy 5:21I command you in the sight of God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the chosen angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality.
Galatians 6:13For even they who receive circumcision don’t keep the law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised, that they may boast in your flesh.