### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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