### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Naḯn**, represented by `{{G3484}}`, is the proper name for a place in Palestine. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific location in Jesus's ministry. The name is believed to be of Hebrew origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G3484}}` is in the narrative of Luke's Gospel. The verse establishes Jesus's journey "the day after" into a **city** `{{G4172}}` called **Nain**. This event is not a solitary one; the text explicitly states that "many of his disciples" and "much people" accompanied him on this journey, setting the scene by noting the significant following Jesus had gathered [[Luke 7:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Luke 7:11]] help clarify the scene:
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): This term defines Nain as a town, likely with walls. It often serves as a setting for public events and ministry, such as the "city of David" [[Luke 2:11]] or the "heavenly Jerusalem" [[Hebrews 12:22]].
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai** (go): This word means to travel or traverse. It describes the action of Jesus's journey to Nain and is used elsewhere to convey the Great Commission to "go ye therefore, and teach all nations" [[Matthew 28:19]].
* `{{G3101}}` **mathētḗs** (disciple): Meaning a learner or pupil, this word identifies the dedicated followers who traveled with Jesus. To be a disciple requires abiding in his word [[John 8:31]].
* `{{G3793}}` **óchlos** (people): This describes the large, unspecific crowd or throng that also accompanied Jesus to Nain. These multitudes were often the object of Jesus's compassion [[Matthew 9:36]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3484}}` is found in its context as a specific destination within Jesus's ministry.
* **A Deliberate Journey:** The naming of **Nain** demonstrates that Jesus's travels were intentional. He went `{{G4198}}` to a specific, named city `{{G4172}}`, indicating a purposeful mission rather than aimless wandering.
* **Public Ministry:** The presence of both disciples `{{G3101}}` and a large crowd of people `{{G3793}}` highlights the public nature of Jesus's work. His entrance into **Nain** was a notable event witnessed by many [[Luke 7:11]].
* **The Setting for an Event:** By identifying a particular city, the narrative establishes a concrete stage for divine activity. A city on a hill cannot be hidden [[Matthew 5:14]], and Jesus's arrival in **Nain** with a large following creates an expectation of a significant public teaching or miracle.
### Summary
In summary, while **Naḯn** `{{G3484}}` is merely a geographical name mentioned once, its biblical role is important. It grounds Jesus's ministry in a real-world location, emphasizing that his work was not abstract but took place in specific towns among ordinary people. The single reference in [[Luke 7:11]] uses this place to frame a scene of Jesus traveling with purpose, accompanied by both his dedicated disciples and a growing multitude of followers.
TRV