### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **Kapernaoúm**, represented by `{{G2584}}`, refers to **Capernaum**, a place in Palestine. It appears **16 times** in **16 unique verses**, establishing it as a key location in the biblical narrative. Of Hebrew origin, it identifies a specific town that became a center for Jesus' ministry.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2584}}` is identified as a **city** of **Galilee** `{{G1056}}` located upon the sea coast in the borders of **Zabulon** `{{G2194}}` and **Nephthalim** `{{G3508}}` ([[Matthew 4:13]], [[Luke 4:31]]). After leaving **Nazareth** `{{G3478}}`, Jesus came and dwelt in **Capernaum** [[Matthew 4:13]]. The city was the site of much of his public ministry, where he taught in the **synagogue** `{{G4864}}` on the sabbath day ([[Mark 1:21]], [[John 6:59]]). It was in **Capernaum** that a **centurion** `{{G1543}}` came to him [[Matthew 8:5]] and a nobleman's son was sick [[John 4:46]]. Despite the "mighty works" performed there, the city was rebuked for its unbelief and condemned to be "brought down to **hell** `{{G86}}`" [[Matthew 11:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events in Capernaum:
* `{{G1056}}` **Galilaía** (Galilee): This identifies the region where Capernaum was located. It is explicitly called "a city of **Galilee**" [[Luke 4:31]].
* `{{G4864}}` **synagōgḗ** (synagogue): This was a primary location for Jesus' ministry within the city. Scripture records that he entered the **synagogue** and taught in **Capernaum** ([[Mark 1:21]], [[John 6:59]]).
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (mighty works): The city was a witness to many of Jesus' miracles. Its judgment was linked to the fact that the "mighty works" done there would have brought **Sodom** `{{G4670}}` to repentance [[Matthew 11:23]].
* `{{G86}}` **háidēs** (hell): This word represents the ultimate judgment pronounced upon the city for its failure to repent. Jesus declares that **Capernaum**, which was exalted to heaven, would be brought down to **hell** [[Luke 10:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2584}}` is significant, serving as a powerful illustration of spiritual principles.
* **A Center of Divine Revelation:** Jesus made **Capernaum** a central base for his ministry after leaving Nazareth [[Matthew 4:13]]. The city was privileged to hear his teachings and witness his power firsthand.
* **The Consequence of Unbelief:** Despite receiving immense spiritual light through Jesus' presence and "mighty works" `{{G1411}}`, the city faced a severe judgment. Its fate serves as a solemn warning about the responsibility that comes with great spiritual privilege [[Matthew 11:23]].
* **A Proverb of Unrecognized Power:** The works done in **Capernaum** became widely known, to the point that Jesus referenced the proverb, "whatsoever we have heard done in **Capernaum**, do also here in thy country" [[Luke 4:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2584}}` **Kapernaoúm** is not merely a name on a map but a focal point of Jesus' Galilean ministry. It was a city blessed with the sustained presence, teaching, and miraculous power of Jesus. Yet, its story is primarily a cautionary tale, illustrating that witnessing divine works without repentance leads to judgment. **Capernaum** stands as a timeless symbol of the profound consequences of rejecting the light.
TRV