The Greek word Potíoloi, represented by G4223, identifies Puteoli, a place in Italy. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name is of Latin origin and translates to "little wells," which refers to mineral springs.
In the biblical narrative, G4223 marks a specific destination on a sea voyage detailed in the book of Acts. Travelers arrived at this port city after departing from Rhegium. The account specifies the conditions of the journey, noting that after one day, a favorable wind allowed them to complete the passage, as stated in the phrase, "and we came the next day to Puteoli" Acts 28:13.
Several related words from the context of the journey help to situate the arrival at Puteoli:
- G4484 Rhḗgion (Rhegium, a place in Italy): This is the location from which the travelers departed immediately before arriving at Puteoli, establishing a clear travel route Acts 28:13.
- G3558 nótos (the south(-west) wind): This term identifies the specific wind that blew, enabling the ship to make the journey to its destination Acts 28:13.
- G1206 deuteraîos (on the second day): This word establishes the timeline of the final leg of the voyage, indicating the arrival at Puteoli happened the day after the south wind arose Acts 28:13.
- G2064 érchomai (to come or go): This verb is used to describe the act of arrival at Puteoli, signifying the successful completion of that portion of the journey Acts 28:13.
The narrative significance of G4223 lies in its function as a precise geographical marker.
- Journey Milestone: Puteoli serves as a key landmark in the biblical account, signaling the end of a specific sea passage and arrival at a notable Italian port.
- Historical Detail: The mention of a real-world location like Puteoli, along with other details like the starting point of Rhegium and the south wind, adds a layer of historical specificity to the narrative.
- Geographical Context: Its identification as a place in Italy firmly roots this segment of the journey within the Roman Empire, providing a clear geographical setting for the events described in the passage Acts 28:13.
In summary, G4223 is a place name whose importance comes from its singular, factual use in scripture. It functions not as a theological concept but as a geographical anchor point in the book of Acts. Its presence demonstrates the detailed nature of the biblical record, marking a specific and identifiable port of arrival in a carefully documented voyage.
TRV