σαργάνη (sarganē)
sarganē
basket
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun sarganē refers to a specific type of container: a basket or hamper constructed from plaited or twisted ropes rather than woven reeds. This distinction in material is significant, as it describes a durable vessel capable of withstanding rough handling, which explains its use in a high-stakes escape scenario.
Its sole biblical appearance occurs in 2 Corinthians 11:33, where Paul recounts being lowered in a basket through a window to evade capture in Damascus. The choice of this word highlights the makeshift and urgent nature of his flight; he was not carried in a formal litter but in a utilitarian rope basket that could be quickly deployed from a city wall.
Linguistic sources suggest the term may have Hebrew origins, pointing to a shared cultural understanding of such woven containers in the ancient Near East. By specifying this particular type of basket, Paul emphasizes the humility and danger of his ministry, contrasting his physical vulnerability with the strength of the message he carried.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sarganē describes a sturdy basket made of twisted ropes, distinct from finer woven baskets used for delicate goods. In 2 Corinthians 11:33, Paul uses this term to recall his dramatic escape from Damascus. He was lowered through a window in a city wall, hidden inside this rough-hewn container to avoid capture by the governor under King Aretas.
This detail reveals the humble and dangerous reality of Paul’s early ministry. He did not travel in comfort or safety but relied on makeshift solutions to survive. The basket symbolizes his vulnerability and willingness to endure hardship for the sake of the gospel. It reminds us that God often uses fragile means to accomplish His purposes, turning moments of peril into opportunities for deliverance.
When you face situations where you feel exposed or unable to control your circumstances, remember Paul’s experience. Your safety does not depend on perfect conditions but on the faithfulness of God who provides rescue even in the most unlikely ways.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a basket1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σαργάνῃ1×
Key Verses
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II Corinthians 11:33
I was let down in a basket through a window by the wall, and escaped his hands.
This verse uniquely uses sarganē to describe the rope basket that enabled Paul’s escape, highlighting the urgency and humility of his ministry.