### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Laodíkeia**, represented by `{{G2993}}`, identifies **Laodicea**, a place in Asia Minor. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term, derived from a compound of the words λαός and δίκη, consistently refers to a specific city that was a notable center for early Christians.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2993}}` is mentioned as a key location for the early church. It is listed as one of the seven churches in Asia to which the book of Revelation was to be sent [[Revelation 1:11]]. The Apostle Paul expressed having a "great conflict" for the believers in Laodicea, showing deep pastoral concern for them [[Colossians 2:1]]. This concern was shared by Epaphras, who had a "great zeal" for the church there [[Colossians 4:13]]. The community included a church that met in the house of Nymphas [[Colossians 4:15]] and was part of a letter-exchange network with the Colossians, who were instructed to read an epistle from Laodicea [[Colossians 4:16]]. Additionally, a subscription note identifies Laodicea as "the chiefest city of Phrygia Pacatiana" from which the first epistle to Timothy was written [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding Laodicea:
* `{{G2994}}` **Laodikeús** (a Laodicean, i.e. inhabitant of Laodicia): This specifies the people of the city. The church in Laodicea is referred to as the "church of the **Laodiceans**" [[Colossians 4:16]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (assembly, church): This word defines the religious congregation in the city. Laodicea is the location of one of the seven **churches** of Asia [[Revelation 1:11]], and Paul gives instructions concerning the "church which is in his house" to Nymphas [[Colossians 4:15]].
* `{{G1992}}` **epistolḗ** ("epistle," letter): This highlights the city's role in early church communication. The Colossians were instructed to read "the **epistle** from Laodicea" [[Colossians 4:16]].
* `{{G2404}}` **Hierápolis** (Hierapolis, a place in Asia Minor): This nearby city is mentioned in connection with Laodicea, indicating a regional relationship. Epaphras is noted for his zeal for the believers in both Laodicea and **Hierapolis** [[Colossians 4:13]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G2993}}` is primarily geographical and ecclesiological, marking it as an important hub for Christianity in Asia Minor.
* **A Seven Churches Recipient:** Its inclusion as one of the seven churches in Revelation establishes its prominence and direct connection to the apostolic message being circulated in Asia [[Revelation 1:11]].
* **A Focus of Apostolic Concern:** The community at Laodicea was the subject of intense spiritual effort and care from Paul and his fellow workers like Epaphras ([[Colossians 2:1]], [[Colossians 4:13]]).
* **A Center for Communication:** The instruction to exchange epistles with the Colossian church demonstrates that Laodicea was an active and connected part of the broader Christian community [[Colossians 4:16]].
* **A Prominent City:** Its identification as "the chiefest city of Phrygia Pacatiana" suggests it was a location of regional importance, from which apostolic work was conducted [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2993}}` refers to Laodicea, a city that was far more than a simple geographical marker. It was home to one of the seven key churches of Asia, a community that received direct pastoral attention from the Apostle Paul, and an integral part of the communication and fellowship network of the early believers. Its designation as a "chiefest city" underscores its strategic importance in the spread of the faith throughout the region.
TRV