### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Athēnaîos**, represented by `{{G117}}`, is defined as **an Athenæan or inhabitant of Athenæ**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, both within the same narrative context. The term specifically identifies the people of Athens.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G117}}` appears exclusively in the book of Acts during the Apostle Paul's visit to Athens. The term is used to characterize the local populace. The scripture notes that "all the **Athenians** and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing" [[Acts 17:21]]. This sets the stage for Paul's address, where he stands on Mars' hill and begins by speaking directly to the "Ye men of **Athens**" [[Acts 17:22]], acknowledging their deep religious inclinations.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding the Athenians:
* `{{G2119}}` **eukairéō** (spend time): This word describes the primary activity of the Athenians, indicating they used their leisure to pursue new ideas and discussions [[Acts 17:21]].
* `{{G2537}}` **kainós** (new): This highlights the Athenians' constant desire for novelty. Their interest was not just in hearing things, but specifically in hearing some **new** thing [[Acts 17:21]].
* `{{G1174}}` **deisidaimonésteros** (too superstitious): This is the term Paul uses to describe the Athenians' spiritual state. He perceives that they are more religious than others, which he uses as a bridge to introduce the Gospel [[Acts 17:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G117}}` is tied to the encounter between the Gospel and Greek philosophy.
* **Intellectual Openness:** The Athenians' curiosity and willingness to "hear some new thing" [[Acts 17:21]] created the opportunity for Paul to preach. Their intellectual culture, though not centered on God, provided an audience for the message of Jesus and the resurrection.
* **Misdirected Worship:** Paul's observation that the Athenians were "too superstitious" [[Acts 17:22]] illustrates humanity's innate drive to worship. However, without divine revelation, this worship was misdirected, as seen in their altar to an unknown god.
* **The Gospel Confronts Philosophy:** The scene on Mars' Hill `{{G697}}` is a pivotal moment where apostolic preaching directly engages with the philosophical center of the world. Paul addresses the "men of Athens" [[Acts 17:22]], using their own culture to challenge their worldview and point them to the true Creator.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G117}}` is a specific identifier for the inhabitants of Athens as they appear in the biblical narrative. While used only twice, the term introduces a people defined by their philosophical curiosity and religious devotion. Their story in Acts serves as a key example of how the Gospel can enter and challenge a highly intellectual and pagan culture, using its own characteristics as a starting point for evangelism.
TRV