### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kṓmē**, represented by `{{G2968}}`, refers to a **hamlet** or **village**. It appears **28 times** across **27 unique verses** in the Bible. The term denotes smaller, often unwalled settlements, distinguishing them from larger, fortified cities. It serves as a common backdrop for the ministry of Jesus and his disciples.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospels, `{{G2968}}` is frequently used to describe the scope of Jesus's itinerant ministry. He is depicted moving through "all the cities and villages," teaching, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing ([[Matthew 9:35]], [[Luke 13:22]]). Villages were places of direct interaction and miraculous works; Jesus healed the sick in their streets [[Mark 6:56]] and sent his disciples to preach and heal throughout the towns [[Luke 9:6]]. The term also identifies specific significant locations, such as Bethlehem, the "town where David was" [[John 7:42]], and Bethany, the "town of Mary and her sister Martha" [[John 11:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of a `{{G2968}}` village within its geographical and narrative context:
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): This term for a larger, often walled town is frequently used in conjunction with or contrast to a village. Jesus's ministry extended to both cities and villages ([[Matthew 9:35]], [[Luke 13:22]]).
* `{{G68}}` **agrós** (country): This word for fields or the countryside is sometimes listed alongside cities and villages to describe the full extent of the region where Jesus ministered [[Mark 6:56]]. People in desolate areas were told to go into the surrounding country and villages to find food [[Mark 6:36]].
* `{{G2048}}` **érēmos** (desert): In contrast to a populated village, a desert place is described as lonesome and waste. When multitudes gathered in a desert place, they were sent away to nearby villages for provisions ([[Matthew 14:15]], [[Luke 9:12]]).
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This word describes the action of arriving in a new location for ministry. Jesus and his disciples are often described as entering a certain village to carry out their work ([[Luke 10:38]], [[Luke 17:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G2968}}` is primarily functional, highlighting the nature and reach of the gospel.
* **Centers of Itinerant Ministry:** Villages are the primary settings for much of Jesus's work outside of major centers like Jerusalem. They are the places where he taught [[Mark 6:6]], healed [[Luke 9:6]], and demonstrated his power.
* **The Mission Field:** Jesus specifically instructed his disciples to enter villages to preach, find lodging, and carry out their mission, establishing these small communities as vital grounds for the gospel's spread [[Matthew 10:11]].
* **Setting for Key Narratives:** Specific villages are integral to the biblical story. Jesus gave his disciples instructions concerning a village opposite them before his triumphal entry [[Matthew 21:2]], and he appeared to two disciples on the road to the village of Emmaus after his resurrection [[Luke 24:13]].
* **Contrast with Power Centers:** By ministering in humble villages, Jesus demonstrated that the kingdom of God was accessible to all people, not just those in prominent cities or positions of influence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2968}}` is more than just a geographical designation. It defines the everyday landscape where Jesus's ministry unfolded. As the setting for teachings, healings, and the commissioning of disciples, the village represents the accessibility of the gospel to common people in ordinary places, far from the religious and political centers of power.
TRV