φυλάσσω

I keep, guard, observe

Definition

The Greek verb φυλάσσω (phylassō) primarily means 'to guard, protect, or keep watch over' something, as seen when shepherds are 'keeping watch' over their flocks at night (Luke 2:8). In a legal or religious sense, it means 'to observe, keep, or obey' commandments, laws, or traditions, such as the rich young ruler who claimed to have 'kept' all the commandments from his youth (Matthew 19:20, Luke 18:21). It can also carry the sense of 'preserving' or 'maintaining' a state, like guarding one's life from covetousness (Luke 12:15) or a strong man guarding his palace (Luke 11:21).

Biblical Usage

φυλάσσω is used 30 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and the epistles. In the Gospels, it frequently describes obeying the Mosaic Law or Jewish traditions (e.g., Matthew 19:20, Mark 10:20, Luke 11:28). It also describes literal guarding or protecting, as with shepherds (Luke 2:8) or the demon-possessed man whom others tried to guard (Luke 8:29). In Acts and the epistles, it extends to keeping Christian teachings or oneself from evil (e.g., Acts 16:4, 21:25; Galatians 6:13).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek root φυλακ- (phylak-), related to 'guard' or 'watch'. It is cognate with φύλαξ (phylax, 'a guard') and φυλακή (phylakē, 'a guard, watch, or prison'). The core idea is protective vigilance, whether physical or moral.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges human responsibility and divine instruction. In the New Testament, it highlights the tension between merely 'keeping' external laws (like the Pharisees) and the internal, Spirit-empowered obedience of the new covenant. Jesus redefines blessedness as 'hearing the word of God and keeping it' (Luke 11:28), shifting focus from ritual observance to faithful adherence to God's message. Understanding φυλάσσω enriches reading by clarifying that Christian 'keeping' is not about legalistic observance but about a guarded, faithful life in response to God's grace.

In the Greco-Roman and Jewish world, 'keeping' laws or traditions was central to social and religious identity. For Jews, 'keeping' the Torah was a mark of covenant faithfulness. The shepherds 'keeping watch' (Luke 2:8) were performing a low-status but vital role, often working at night to protect flocks from thieves and predators, which underscores the humble setting of Jesus' birth.

τηρέω (tēreō, G5083) — Often overlaps with φυλάσσω, but can emphasize 'preserving' or 'holding in custody' with a slightly stronger sense of maintenance over time. φρουρέω (phroureō, G5432) — Specifically 'to garrison' or 'guard' in a military sense. διατηρέω (diatēreō, G1301) — To 'keep carefully' or 'observe strictly'.

Word Details

Scripture References