φράσσω (phrassō)
phrassō
to stop
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb phrassō means to block, stop, or close something up. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, yet its imagery is vivid and concrete. It describes the act of shutting a mouth or stopping an opening, often with a sense of finality.
Paul uses this word in Romans 3:19 to explain that every mouth is stopped before God. The image is not merely quietness but a forced silence where no defense can be offered. Similarly, in Hebrews 11:33, it describes how the mouths of lions were closed, preventing them from biting. This usage highlights divine intervention rather than natural restraint.
Its root suggests a physical barrier or fence. Translators usually render it as "stopped" or "closed," capturing the idea that speech or action is physically obstructed. The word carries weight because it implies that the silence is imposed by a higher power, leaving no room for argument or escape.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word phrassō describes a firm closing or blocking, like shutting a gate or sealing an opening. In Romans 3:19, Paul uses this image to show that every mouth is stopped before God. This silence is not about politeness but about the end of human justification. We cannot argue our way into right standing with the Creator. The law speaks clearly, leaving no room for self-defense.
Yet this word also carries a promise of protection. In Hebrews 11:33, it describes how the mouths of lions were stopped. This was not natural calm but divine intervention. God can close what would otherwise harm us. When we face threats or accusations, we can trust that He holds the power to shut down danger.
Even in our daily lives, this word reminds us that some things are beyond our control. We do not need to force every outcome. God can stop the noise of criticism and silence the threats we fear. His sovereign hand is sufficient for every situation.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- will be stopped1×
- shut1×
- may be stopped,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔφραξαν1×
- φραγῇ,1×
- φραγήσεται1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 3:19
Now we know that whatever things the law says, it speaks to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may be brought under the judgment of God.
This occurrence establishes that human self-justification is completely halted before God's judgment.
-
Hebrews 11:33
who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked out righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
Here the word highlights divine intervention that physically prevents harm from wild animals.
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II Corinthians 11:10
As the truth of Christ is in me, no one will stop me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia.
Paul uses this term to affirm that no external force can prevent him from speaking the truth of Christ.