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φραγμός

phragmós

G5418 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

An enclosure, fence, or barrier—a structure erected to mark off, separate, or protect a defined space. In various contexts, refers to a physical fence (such as for vineyards or livestock), a wall or partition separating areas, or, figuratively, any means of separation or demarcation (such as social or religious boundaries). The meaning extends metaphorically to legal, ritual, or social divisions that establish limits or distinctions.

Semantic Range

fence, hedge, enclosure, partition, barrier, dividing wall, means of separation (literal or figurative)

Root / Etymology

From the verb φράσσω (phrássō: to fence in, to block, to barricade). The noun φραγμός designates the result of such action—a structure or device for blocking or enclosing.

Historical & Contextual Notes

The term φραγμός appears in classical Greek to describe a physical fence, wall, or hedge, especially surrounding fields, gardens, or animal enclosures (cf. Xenophon, Aristotle). The Septuagint often uses φραγμός to render Hebrew terms denoting agricultural fences or partitions (e.g., Isaiah 5:2). In the New Testament (notably in Matthew 21:33; Mark 12:1, parable of the vineyard; Ephesians 2:14), φραγμός retains its basic meaning of a physical enclosure but also acquires figurative resonance: in Ephesians, it denotes a dividing wall symbolizing ethnic and religious separation. English translation as 'hedge' or 'fence' is accurate in literal contexts, but may obscure the figurative senses of social or ritual separation. The term contrasts with τοῖχος (toichos: a more general term for wall), as φραγμός often connotes an intentionally restrictive or divisive function, especially in metaphorical use.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from φράσσω; a fence, or inclosing barrier (literally or figuratively):--hedge (+ round about), partition.

Root Family

φραγ- (phragmós) — to fence in, to block, to enclose

Root φραγ- to fence in, to block, to enclose

Word Forms

3 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G5418-01 φραγμὸν phragmon N ACC M SG a fence an enclosing barrier a fence 2
G5418-02 φραγμοῦ phragmou N GEN M SG partition of an enclosure partition 1
G5418-03 φραγμοὺς phragmous N ACC M PL hedges enclosing barriers hedges 1

Occurrences in Scripture

4 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G5418-01 Matthew 21:33 φραγμὸν phragmon N ACC M SG hedge an enclosing barrier enclosure
G5418-01 Mark 12:1 φραγμὸν phragmon N ACC M SG a fence an enclosing barrier a fence
G5418-03 Luke 14:23 φραγμοὺς phragmous N ACC M PL hedges enclosing barriers hedges
G5418-02 Ephesians 2:14 φραγμοῦ phragmou N GEN M SG partition of an enclosure partition
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