### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **methórios**, represented by `{{G3181}}`, is used to denote a **border** or frontier. Its base definition indicates something that is bounded alongside or contiguous. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet its context provides a significant geographical and theological marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G3181}}` occurs in the Gospel of Mark. After a period of ministry, Jesus "arose, and went into the **borders** of Tyre and Sidon" [[Mark 7:24]]. This act describes a deliberate journey into a non-Jewish, or Gentile, region. Upon arriving, He entered a house and sought seclusion, though His presence was ultimately revealed. The word specifically defines the frontier of this Gentile territory, setting the stage for His subsequent interaction there.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G3181}}` is clarified by several key words used in the same passage:
* `{{G5184}}` **Týros** (Tyre): This refers to "Tyrus (i.e. Tsor), a place in Palestine" and is one of the two specific Gentile cities whose **border** Jesus approached [[Mark 7:24]].
* `{{G4605}}` **Sidṓn** (Sidon): This is "Sidon (i.e. Tsidon), a place in Palestine," mentioned alongside Tyre to define the region Jesus traveled into [[Mark 7:24]].
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This verb, meaning to "enter (literally or figuratively)," describes the action of first going into the **borders** of the region and then into a house within that territory.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3181}}` is derived entirely from its singular, impactful context in Mark's Gospel.
* **Mission to the Gentiles:** Jesus’s act of crossing the **borders** of Tyre and Sidon is a physical demonstration of His ministry extending beyond the Jewish people to the Gentiles.
* **Intentional Withdrawal:** The journey into these foreign **borders** was initiated with a desire for privacy, as Jesus "would have no man know it" [[Mark 7:24]]. This highlights a moment of deliberate retreat.
* **Uncontainable Fame:** Despite crossing a geographical **border** to find seclusion, Scripture notes that "he could not be hid" [[Mark 7:24]]. This underscores the truth that Christ's identity and mission cannot be limited by physical or cultural boundaries.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G3181}}` is a minor word in terms of frequency, its placement in Scripture is pivotal. It marks a literal **border** that Jesus crosses, but more importantly, it signifies the crossing of a spiritual frontier. This single use illustrates a key moment in His ministry, foreshadowing the universal reach of the gospel to all nations, far beyond the geographical confines of Israel.
TRV