Hebrew · Strong's H5462
סָגַר
(sah-GAR)
verb
To shut or close, often implying restriction or confinement; also to deliver or surrender.
The Hebrew verb סָגַר (sagar) primarily means "to shut," "to close," or "to bar." This can refer literally to closing a door, gate, or other physical opening, thereby restricting access or creating a barrier. The act of shutting often implies confinement, protection, or the sealing of something. For instance, it is used when referring to a house being shut up or a city gate being closed to prevent entry or exit.
Beyond its literal sense, sagar can take on a figurative meaning, particularly in contexts where one person or entity is "delivered up" or "surrendered" into the hand of another. This metaphorical extension indicates the shutting in or confinement of someone to another's control or power. This usage is significant, as it highlights a transfer of authority or vulnerability. The specific context determines whether this "delivering up" is for judgment, protection, or another purpose.
The theological weight of sagar is evident in passages describing divine action. God is depicted as the one who shuts up a womb, brings about confinement, or delivers individuals into challenging circumstances. The concept of something being "shut up" by God can signify divine judgment, a testing period, or a sovereign act of control over natural processes. Conversely, the ability to open what is shut (or shut what is open) is a powerful metaphor for divine authority and intervention, as seen in prophetic literature concerning God's ultimate dominion.
Common English renderings
- shut
- close
- deliver
- give over
- inclose
- stop
Key verses
"And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; and he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open."
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"then the priest shall go out of the house to the door of the house, and shut up the house seven days."
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"but unto Hannah he gave a double portion; for he loved Hannah, but Jehovah had shut up her womb."
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"And Miriam was shut up without the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again."
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"And the men pursued after them the way to the Jordan unto the fords: and as soon as they that pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate."
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"Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver up me and my men into the hand of Saul? And Jehovah said, They will deliver thee up."
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