Κώς

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Kṓs, represented by G2972, refers to Cos, an island in the Mediterranean. Its origin is uncertain. This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, identifying a specific location in a travel narrative.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its single biblical appearance, G2972 marks a stopping point on a missionary journey. After departing from a group of people, the travelers, including the author, "came with a straight course unto Coos" before continuing on to other ports the following day Acts 21:1. The mention of Coos provides a specific, geographical anchor to the account of their voyage toward Patara.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of the journey to Cos G2972 is clarified by several words in the same passage:

• G4499 Rhódos (Rhodes): This is the island of Rhodus, the destination reached "the day following" the stop at Cos, highlighting the sequential nature of the voyage Acts 21:1.
• G3959 Pátara (Patara): The journey continues from Rhodes to Patara, a place in Asia Minor, further mapping the route taken by the apostles Acts 21:1.
• G2113 euthydroméō (to lay a straight course): This verb means "to lay a straight course, i.e. sail direct." It describes the manner of travel to Cos, indicating a direct and purposeful voyage Acts 21:1.

Theological Significance

While G2972 is a geographical name without inherent theological meaning, its inclusion in scripture holds significance within its narrative context.

• Historical Precision: The naming of specific ports like Cos grounds the apostolic journeys in real-world geography and history, reinforcing the authenticity of the biblical account.
• Purposeful Movement: The journey that passes through Cos is part of a deliberate mission. The use of the phrase "came with a straight course" G2113 in Acts 21:1 implies a focused and direct travel plan, consistent with the purpose-driven nature of apostolic ministry.
• Expansion of the Church: The mention of Cos, along with Rhodes G4499 and Patara G3959, charts the physical progress of the gospel's messengers through the Mediterranean world, illustrating the expansion of the early church Acts 21:1.

Summary

In summary, G2972 Kṓs is a specific geographical reference to the island of Cos. Its sole appearance in the Bible serves to document a precise moment in an apostolic journey recorded in the book of Acts. While a simple place name, its inclusion provides historical credibility and helps illustrate the deliberate and expansive movement of the early church's mission.