### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ), Strong's number `{{G3818}}`, is a proper noun referring to a specific geographical region. Its base definition describes it as the feminine form of an adjective of uncertain derivation, meaning "Pacatianian." It designates a particular section of Phrygia, an ancient region in west-central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). As a geographical descriptor, its semantic range is narrow, strictly denoting a physical location. It carries no inherent moral, spiritual, or abstract meaning beyond its function as a place name. Its significance lies solely in its identification of a specific territory within the broader Roman province.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ) is primarily associated with the account of Paul's second missionary journey. While not always explicitly transliterated as "Pacatiana" in all English Bible versions, the geographical context points to its relevance. The broader region of Phrygia is mentioned in [[Acts 16:6]], where it is stated that Paul and his companions "went through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia."
In this passage, Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ) represents a specific, historically recognized sub-region within Phrygia. The narrative of [[Acts 16:6]] highlights the divine guidance directing the apostles' missionary routes. Although they traversed through various parts of Phrygia and Galatia, they were providentially hindered from entering the Roman province of Asia at that time. The mention of specific regions, whether broad like Phrygia or more precise like Pacatiana, grounds the biblical narrative in verifiable historical geography, underscoring the real-world context of the early church's evangelistic efforts.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ) is enhanced by considering related geographical and theological concepts:
* **Phrygia (`{{G5393}}`):** The larger region of which Pacatiana was a part. This broader term appears multiple times in the New Testament, notably in [[Acts 2:10]] (referring to Jews and proselytes from Phrygia present at Pentecost) and [[Acts 18:23]] (Paul strengthening disciples in Galatia and Phrygia).
* **Galatia (`{{G1053}}`):** A neighboring region often mentioned alongside Phrygia, particularly in Paul's travels. The churches in Galatia were recipients of Paul's Epistle to the Galatians.
* **Asia (`{{G77}}`):** The Roman province that the Holy Spirit forbade Paul from entering at that specific time, showing the strategic divine direction of missionary endeavors.
* **Missionary Journeys:** The broader theme of the apostles' travels to spread the Gospel, demonstrating the expansion of Christianity from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.
* **Divine Guidance:** The concept of the Holy Spirit actively directing the paths and decisions of God's servants, as powerfully illustrated in [[Acts 16:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ), though indirect, is profound. As a specific geographical location within the biblical narrative, it serves several purposes:
1. **Historical Veracity:** It roots the biblical account in concrete, identifiable locations, affirming the historical reality of the events described. The early Christian mission was not an abstract idea but a movement unfolding in real places among real people.
2. **Divine Sovereignty in Mission:** The mention of specific regions, and the divine guidance concerning where the apostles *could* and *could not* preach ([[Acts 16:6]]), underscores God's sovereign control over the spread of His Word. Even seemingly minor geographical details contribute to the grand narrative of God's redemptive plan unfolding according to His perfect timing and strategy.
3. **The Universality of the Gospel:** While initially constrained by divine direction, the eventual reach of the Gospel to diverse regions like Phrygia (and its sub-regions like Pacatiana) highlights the universal scope of the good news, intended for all peoples and places.
4. **Context for Early Church Growth:** These geographical markers provide the backdrop for understanding the challenges, successes, and specific cultural contexts within which the early church grew and established itself.
### Summary
Πακατιανή (Pakatianḗ), Strong's number `{{G3818}}`, refers to Pacatiana, a distinct section within the ancient region of Phrygia. Its primary biblical association is with [[Acts 16:6]], where it contributes to the detailed geographical context of Paul's second missionary journey. While a seemingly minor geographical detail, its presence reinforces the historical grounding of the New Testament narrative. Theologically, it serves as a testament to the divine sovereignty guiding the early Christian mission, directing the apostles to specific regions like Phrygia while strategically redirecting them from others. It underscores the historical reality of the Gospel's expansion and God's meticulous plan for the spread of His Word across diverse lands.
TRV