στηριγμός

stērigmós

G4740 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

Firmness or stability; denotes a state of being firmly established or fixed. In extended or figurative contexts, refers to steadfastness or moral/spiritual stability— a condition of being unwavering, resolute, or constant.

Semantic Range

state of being supported, firmness, stability, steadfastness (especially in disposition or character)

Root / Etymology

From the verb στηρίζω (to make firm, to establish, to strengthen). The suffix -μός denotes the result or state arising from the root verb, forming nouns indicating the action or resulting quality.

Historical & Contextual Notes

στηριγμός is a rare noun in Greek, attested almost exclusively in Koine and post-Classical Greek. Its only New Testament occurrence is in 2 Peter 3:17, where it refers to being established or steadfast in one's disposition, especially in faith or ethical commitment, to guard against being swayed or led astray. The word is built from στηρίζω, a common verb in both Hellenistic and biblical Greek for 'to strengthen' or 'to establish.' Earlier Classical Greek employs firmness and steadfastness concepts with other nouns, but στηριγμός specifically reflects the outcome of being firmly supported. In the Septuagint, related terms are used to refer to support or strengthening but στηριγμός itself is uncommon. English Bible translations often render it as 'steadfastness' or 'stability,' but the nuance emphasizes a condition of being stabilized, often in mental, moral, or spiritual character.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from στηρίζω; stability (figuratively):--stedfastness.

Root Family

στηριγμός (stērigmos) — firmness, stability, establishment, steadfastness

Root στηρ- to make firm, to support, to establish

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G4740-01 στηριγμοῦ sterigmou N GEN M SG steadfastness of stability stability 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G4740-01 2 Peter 3:17 στηριγμοῦ sterigmou N GEN M SG steadfastness of stability stability