---
title: 3/25/25 Key Greek words translated as “watchman”
description: "Here are the primary **Greek words** translated as **“watchman”** or related to **watching, staying alert, or guarding** in the New Testament, along with their **Strong’s numbers**, definitions, and key **scripture references**: ### 1. **γρηγορέω (*grēgoreō*) – Strong’s G1127** **Meaning**: To…"
url: "https://newwater.church/docs/3-25-25-key-greek-words-translated-as-watchman/"
updated: "2025-03-25"
category: Bible Study
tags:
  - 3/25/25
  - Watchmen on the Wall
---

# 3/25/25 Key Greek words translated as “watchman”

Here are the primary **Greek words** translated as **“watchman”** or related to **watching, staying alert, or guarding** in the New Testament, along with their **Strong’s numbers**, definitions, and key **scripture references**:

### 1. **γρηγορέω (*grēgoreō*) – Strong’s G1127**

**Meaning**: To be awake, to watch, to be vigilant, to stay alert (spiritually and physically).
Often used in the context of **spiritual vigilance**, **prayer**, and **readiness for the Lord’s return**.

**Scripture Examples**:

- **Mark 13:33 (AMP)** – “Be on guard and stay constantly alert (*grēgoreō*) [and pray]; for you do not know when the appointed time will come.”
- **1 Peter 5:8 (AMP)** – “Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert (*grēgoreō*) and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion…”

**Key Insight**: Describes the heart posture of a spiritual watchman—awake, aware, and prayerful.

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### 2. **φυλάσσω (*phulassō*) – Strong’s G5442**

**Meaning**: To guard, keep watch, protect, preserve.
Used for both physical guarding and **spiritual responsibility**.

**Scripture Examples**:

- **Luke 2:8 (AMP)** – “In the same region there were shepherds staying out in the fields, keeping watch (*phulassō*) over their flock by night.”
- **2 Thessalonians 3:3 (AMP)** – “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect (*phulassō*) and guard you from the evil one.”

**Key Insight**: Emphasizes the **protective and preserving** nature of the watchman’s role.

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### 3. **τηρέω (*tēreō*) – Strong’s G5083**

**Meaning**: To keep, guard, observe, watch over. Often used to describe **keeping God’s Word or commandments**.

**Scripture Examples**:

- **John 17:12 (AMP)** – “While I was with them, I was keeping (*tēreō*) them in Your name which You have given Me…”
- **Revelation 3:10 (AMP)** – “Because you have kept (*tēreō*) My command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial…”

**Key Insight**: This word shows the **ongoing care and obedience** aspect of watchfulness.

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### 4. **ἀγρυπνέω (*agrupneō*) – Strong’s G69**

**Meaning**: To be sleepless, keep awake, to be watchful—especially in prayer and vigilance.

**Scripture Examples**:

- **Hebrews 13:17 (AMP)** – “…for they are keeping watch (*agrupneō*) over your souls as those who will have to give an account…”
- **Mark 13:33** (alternate form used alongside *grēgoreō*).

**Key Insight**: Closely tied to **spiritual leadership** and **pastoral intercession**—a literal sleeplessness out of care and duty.

### Summary Table

| Greek Word | Strong’s # | Meaning | Key Scripture Reference |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| *grēgoreō* | G1127 | Be alert, spiritually awake | Mark 13:33, 1 Peter 5:8 |
| *phulassō* | G5442 | Guard, protect, preserve | Luke 2:8, 2 Thess. 3:3 |
| *tēreō* | G5083 | Keep, observe, maintain | John 17:12, Rev. 3:10 |
| *agrupneō* | G69 | Sleepless vigilance | Hebrews 13:17, Mark 13:33 |

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