### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word entópios (`{{G1786}}`) is a compound term derived from the preposition en (`{{G1722}}`), meaning "in" or "within," and the noun topos (`{{G5117}}`), meaning "place" or "locality." Its fundamental meaning, therefore, is "one who is in a place," leading to the definition of "a native," "a local," or "a resident." The word inherently denotes a strong connection or belonging to a specific geographical location, distinguishing an individual as being "of that place" rather than a visitor or stranger. Its semantic range is narrow, primarily focusing on the concept of local residency or origin within a defined area.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term entópios (`{{G1786}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 21:12]]**: "And when we heard these things, both we and *those of that place* pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem."
* In this passage, Paul and his companions are in Caesarea, and the prophet Agabus has just delivered a prophetic warning about Paul's impending arrest in Jerusalem. The phrase "those of that place" (οἱ ἐντόπιοι) refers specifically to the local residents and believers in Caesarea who were present during Agabus's prophecy. They, alongside Luke and Paul's traveling party, were deeply concerned for Paul's safety and urged him not to proceed to Jerusalem. The use of entópios here clearly distinguishes the settled community members from the itinerant apostles and their companions, highlighting their rootedness and active participation in the communal life and concerns of the nascent church in Caesarea.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding entópios (`{{G1786}}`) is enhanced by considering related Greek terms:
* topos (`{{G5117}}`): The root word for "place," which is foundational to the meaning of entópios.
* paroikos (`{{G3940}}`): Meaning "sojourner" or "stranger," this term stands in direct semantic contrast to entópios. While entópios signifies belonging and residency, paroikos denotes temporary or non-native inhabitation.
* xenos (`{{G3581}}`): Meaning "stranger" or "foreigner," also contrasts with the rootedness implied by entópios.
* patris (`{{G3968}}`): Refers to one's "fatherland" or "native country," a broader concept of origin compared to the more localized "of that place" conveyed by entópios.
* polites (`{{G4177}}`): Denotes a "citizen," which implies a legal belonging to a place, whereas entópios simply describes being a resident, whether citizen or not.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence, entópios (`{{G1786}}`) does not carry extensive independent theological weight within the New Testament. However, its presence in [[Acts 21:12]] offers subtle, yet significant, insights into the early Christian community:
* **Local Church Identity:** The term underscores the reality of established local congregations comprising settled residents. It highlights that the early church was not solely a movement of itinerant evangelists but also a collection of rooted communities whose members were "of that place." This speaks to the organic growth and establishment of the Christian faith within specific geographical and social contexts.
* **Communal Concern:** The fact that "those of that place" joined in the plea to Paul demonstrates a profound sense of communal solidarity and concern for fellow believers. It illustrates that the local residents were deeply invested in the welfare of the apostles and the broader mission, sharing in their joys and sorrows.
* **Integration and Witness:** The presence of entópios believers suggests the successful integration of the Gospel into local societies. These were not merely converts passing through but individuals whose lives and testimonies were part of the fabric of their home communities, serving as a continuous witness.
### Summary
The Greek word entópios (`{{G1786}}`), derived from en (in) and topos (place), means "a native" or "a resident of that place." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 21:12]] refers to the local believers in Caesarea who joined in pleading with Paul not to go to Jerusalem. This term emphasizes a person's rootedness and belonging to a specific geographical location, distinguishing them from transient individuals. While not bearing significant independent theological weight, its use in Acts subtly highlights the presence and importance of established local Christian communities, demonstrating their communal solidarity, concern for fellow believers, and integral role within the expanding early church.
TRV