The Greek word Neápolis, represented by G3496, translates to new town. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. This term identifies a specific geographical location, a port city in Macedonia that served as a landing point in the apostolic journeys.
The single biblical occurrence of G3496 is in the narrative of Paul's travels in Acts. After departing from Troas, the travelers "came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis" Acts 16:11. This verse chronicles a specific, two-day sea voyage, positioning Neapolis as the destination port in Macedonia, marking the arrival from Asia Minor. The journey is described as being direct and efficient.
Several related words from the context of its only appearance help frame the significance of the journey to Neapolis:
- G5174 Trōás (Troas): The departure point for the journey, Troas is identified as "a place in Asia Minor" Acts 16:11. It was a recurring location in Paul's travels 2 Corinthians 2:12.
- G2113 euthydroméō (come with a straight course): This word means "to lay a straight course, i.e. sail direct." It emphasizes the direct and unimpeded nature of the voyage to the region of Neapolis Acts 16:11.
- G1966 epioûsa (next): Meaning "the ensuing day," this word establishes the timeline of the journey, indicating the travelers arrived at Neapolis on the day after reaching Samothracia Acts 16:11.
- G1519 eis (to or into): A preposition indicating "the point reached or entered," this word marks Neapolis as the destination. It is often used figuratively to denote purpose, such as being called to repentance Matthew 9:13 or being baptized in the name of the Father Matthew 28:19.
While the name Neapolis itself does not carry intrinsic theological weight, its appearance marks a significant moment in the biblical narrative.
- Gateway for the Gospel: The arrival at Neapolis represents a pivotal transition, as it is the port of entry for the apostolic mission into Macedonia Acts 16:11.
- Purposeful Movement: The journey is described as a direct movement "from" G575 Troas "to" G1519 Neapolis. The preposition "to" G1519 is used elsewhere to denote reaching a specific purpose or result, suggesting the journey was not aimless but directed.
- Narrative Progression: This event marks a clear geographical shift in the book of Acts, documenting the movement of the gospel message from Asia Minor across the Aegean Sea into a new continent.
In summary, G3496 is a geographical marker for "new town," a port in Macedonia. Its singular mention is not merely a historical detail but pinpoints a crucial moment of transition in the apostolic ministry. The journey to Neapolis signifies the crossing of a major boundary, carrying the gospel message into a new region as part of the unfolding biblical narrative.
TRV