The Greek word Pisidía, represented by G4099, is a geographical term for Pisidia, a region of Asia Minor. Based on its base definition, it is probably of foreign origin. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, serving as a specific marker for a location in the book of Acts.
In the biblical narrative, G4099 provides a specific setting for the missionary journeys of the apostles. After departing from Perga, they came to "Antioch in Pisidia," where they entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day Acts 13:14. It is also mentioned as a larger territory that they "passed throughout" before coming into Pamphylia, highlighting its place along their established route Acts 14:24.
Several related words help clarify the context in which Pisidia is mentioned:
- G490 Antiócheia (Antiochia): Defined as "Antiochia, a place in Syria:--Antioch," this word is important because the key city mentioned is "Antioch in Pisidia" Acts 13:14, distinguishing it from other prominent cities named Antioch.
- G4011 Pérgē (Perga): Meaning "a tower; Perga, a place in Asia Minor," this is the location from which the apostles departed before arriving in the region of Pisidia Acts 13:14.
- G4864 synagōgḗ (synagogue): This term refers to "an assemblage of persons; specially, a Jewish 'synagogue'." Its significance is tied to the actions taken in Pisidia, as the apostles went into the synagogue in Antioch to minister Acts 13:14.
While a geographical term, the mention of G4099 carries narrative importance. It serves to ground the expansion of the early church in specific, real-world locations.
- A Site for Ministry: Pisidia, specifically the city of Antioch within it, is identified as a center for apostolic work. The decision to enter the synagogue there marks a key moment in the mission to the Jews in that region Acts 13:14.
- Context for Travel: The use of Pisidia helps map the apostles' deliberate movements, showing they "passed throughout" the region as part of a planned missionary journey Acts 14:24.
- Geographical Specificity: The distinction "Antioch in Pisidia" demonstrates the precision of the biblical account, anchoring the events to a particular place within Asia Minor.
In summary, G4099 functions as a precise geographical identifier within the New Testament. Though it appears only twice, Pisidía is crucial for understanding the travel routes and ministry locations detailed in the book of Acts. It frames the city of Antioch in Pisidia as a significant stop for the apostles and shows how the biblical narrative is rooted in the specific geography of its time.
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