### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hórion**, represented by `{{G3725}}`, refers to a **bound or limit**. Appearing **11 times** across **10 unique verses**, it is most often translated as **border** or **coast**. The term is used to define a boundary-line or, by implication, a frontier region, establishing the geographical settings for key events in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3725}}` is consistently used to mark the boundaries of territories and regions. It charts the movements of Jesus's ministry, such as when he **departed** `{{G3332}}` from Galilee and **came** `{{G2064}}` into the **coasts** of Judaea [[Matthew 19:1]]. The word also defines the reach of authority, as when **Herod** `{{G2264}}` **slew** `{{G337}}` all the children in Bethlehem and in all the **coasts** thereof [[Matthew 2:16]]. Furthermore, it marks the point of origin for individuals, like the **woman** `{{G1135}}` of **Canaan** `{{G5478}}` who **came** `{{G1831}}` out of the same **coasts** [[Matthew 15:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the specific locations and areas encompassed by these borders:
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (city): This word refers to a **town**, a populated center often located within the larger **coasts** `{{G3725}}`. For instance, the **chief men** `{{G4413}}` of the **city** of Antioch expelled Paul and Barnabas from their **coasts** [[Acts 13:50]].
* `{{G1056}}` **Galilaía** (Galilee): Defined as a **region of Palestine**, this is a major setting for Jesus's work. The term `{{G3725}}` is used to describe his movements from **Galilee** into the **coasts** of Judaea [[Matthew 19:1]].
* `{{G1179}}` **Dekápolis** (Decapolis): This refers to **the ten-city region**. Its connection to `{{G3725}}` is direct, as Jesus travels through the midst of the **coasts** of **Decapolis** on his way to the sea of Galilee [[Mark 7:31]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G3725}}` carries significant narrative weight, often highlighting key themes in the Gospels and Acts.
* **Mapping the Gospel's Reach:** The term delineates the progression of Jesus's ministry. His journey from the **coasts** of Tyre and Sidon through the **coasts** of Decapolis shows his mission extending into Gentile territories [[Mark 7:31]].
* **Boundaries of Rejection:** The **coasts** of a region frequently become places of conflict or rejection. The people of one area **besought** `{{G3870}}` Jesus to **depart** `{{G3327}}` out of their **coasts** [[Matthew 8:34]], and Paul and Barnabas were **expelled** `{{G1544}}` from the **coasts** of Antioch [[Acts 13:50]].
* **Delineating Authority:** The word is used to define a sphere of control. Herod's cruel decree was not limited to Bethlehem but extended to "all the **coasts** thereof," demonstrating the scope of his authority [[Matthew 2:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3725}}`, or **hórion**, is more than a simple geographical term for a **border** or **coast**. It functions as a narrative tool that provides structure to the biblical accounts. It maps the movement of Jesus and the apostles, defines the boundaries of both acceptance and rejection, and establishes the limits of earthly authority. From the shores of Galilee to the frontiers of Judaea, **hórion** frames the physical and spiritual landscape where the events of the New Testament unfold.
TRV