Many biblical texts admit of a number of different interpretations which need not be seen as mutually exclusive, even if they are rather different. However, we need not understand this text in merely an “either-or” way. And, as stated above this is a common figurative meaning of the Greek word πύλης (gates) in ancient usage. Figuratively, he probably means that the powers of Hell would not prevail against the Church. For again it does not pertain to inanimate object to act, but to be acted upon.Īnd thus, contextually, it seems clear that our Lord here uses the word “gates” in a figurative, rather than a literal sense. Now, inanimate objects tend to be acted upon, and thus they generally take passive verb forms, not active ones. For as our reader states, it does not pertain to gates to do much more than just sit there.įurther still, the verb κατισχύσουσιν ( katischusousin = will prevail) is a future, indicative, active verb. Further, since Jesus speaks of the gates as “not prevailing,” it would also seem that he has in mind something more than inanimate metal gates of some sort. First, Hell does not have literal iron gates. But for the reader and interpreter, more is required.Ĭontextually, it would seem rather clear that Jesus does not have literal gates in mind. Now, for the translator, “gates” is a perfectly adequate translation.

And in this sense, word focuses on “what proceeds out of something.”Īnd thus we see some of the subtleties of the word pules. However Strongs Greek Concordance and Greek Lexicon of New Testament indicates that πύλης “gates” in antiquity was also used to indicate authority and power.įurther, while the word may simply refer to the large entrance gate to a city or fortress, it also typically refers to the exit the people go out of.

Listen to gates of hades free