Nearly all commentators emphasize that the Greek word 'paidagōgos,' often translated as 'schoolmaster' or 'tutor,' does not mean a teacher. It refers to a trusted slave who guarded a child, enforced discipline, and escorted them to the actual teacher. In this metaphor, the Law is the guardian, while Christ is the true Teacher. The Law's role was to restrain and guide, not to provide the ultimate instruction for salvation.