[Greek] ἀσφαλής (asphalēs),[Latin] cognoscere certum,[Latin] scire diligentius,[Latin] necessarium: certain, definite, sure, secure (literally and figuratively), firm, steadfast, unfailing, pertaining to a safeguard; Heb.6:19, Acts 21:34, Acts 22:30, Acts 25:26, Php.3:1
A pothole on 2nd Avenue in New York City
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term, having various nuanced meanings, means steadfast, not liable to fall, trusted, unfailing, safe, assured from danger, convincing, sound, not risky, certain, and steady. Homer’s Odyssey 6.42 states, “The goddess departed to Olympus, where, they say, is the abode of the gods that stands forever.” Sophocles’ Ajax 1251 states, “It is not the broad-shouldered men that are the steadfast allies. No, it is the wise who prevail in every argument.” Xenophon’ Memorabilia 4.6.15 states, “Whenever he himself argued out a question, he advanced by steps that gained general assent, holding this to be the only sure method. Accordingly, whenever he argued, he gained a measure of assent from his hearers than any man I have known.”
Old Testament: This term means to go straight, to walk, to be upright, to live upright, to proceed on the right path, to guide, to be strong, to prevail, and to make firm. This term also can define one’s relationship with God. The faithful person walks in the right path following God’s ways. This person becomes blessed and happy, living uprightly in God’s “eyes.” Qualities of firmness and strength come from being strong, from prevailing and making firm. Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding (Prov.9:6). All nations shall call Him blessed (Psa.72:17). He restored me in my office (Gen.41:13). Arise, O Lord, let not man prevail (Psa.9:19). Your God has commanded your strength; show Yourself strong (Psa.68:28).Wisdom strengthens a wise man more than ten rulers (Ecc.7:19). The power of Midian prevailed against Israel (Jdg.6:2). Behold, the man who would not make God his refuge, but trusted in the abundance of his riches and was strong in his evil desire (Psa.52:7).
New Testament: This term means sure, firm, truthful, and with certainty. Paul’s writing of what he has previously taught and written provides a safeguard of teaching for the Philippians. Paul had been arrested by the authorities. However, there is uncertainty as to what Paul has been accused of. Paul was brought to the compound to ascertain the ‘truth’ of his ‘crimes’. The magistrate, unable to determine Paul’s crimes, brought Paul before King Agrippa. To further determine the truth of Paul’s crimes, Paul was brought before the chief priest and the whole Sanhedrin.
Scripture:
“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. Writing the same things to you is no burden for me but is a safeguard for you.” Php. 3:1
Paul had both taught and written to his Christian congregations. Oral tradition was the primary means of the transmission of Christian teaching. The written transmission of Christian teaching provides a source of comfort and confirmation to the Philippians.
“This we have as an anchor to the soul, sure and firm, which reaches into the interior behind the veil.” Heb.6:19
The anchor becomes a metaphor for Christ as a source of security. This anchor reaches into the Holy of Holies, the innermost realm of God’s realm.
Etymology: The Latin cognoscere certum means to know certainty. The Latin scire diligentius means to be more careful.
Conclusion:
Asphalt, fall (verb), cognizant, recognize, science, certain, certainty, necessary
I am not surprised that this term would have various meanings. This term can range from secure, trusting, dependable, and truthful. In contrast to Yahweh of the Old Testament, the gods were often perceived as fleeting. The gods were often seen as both undependable and fickle. The Old Testament culture adds a new dimension of walking with God. This allows one to have a faithful, upright, and trustful relationship with God. Often from this comes a happy and blessed life.
Paul provides surety to his Philippian congregation. Jesus also provides surety for all followers. In the earthly realm, Jesus provides access to the inner realm of God’s domain. It was also necessary to ascertain the ‘truth’ of Paul’s ‘crimes’.
Interestingly, the Greek verb sphallo means to fall (trip). The Greek a- is a negative participle. Therefore the Greek term asphales means secure, on solid footing, and built on something where one does not fall or slip.
Here’s to avoiding falling into those potholes in life. 😠😠😠