### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ptolemaḯs**, represented by `{{G4424}}`, refers to **Ptolemais, a place in Palestine**. Its definition indicates it was named after Ptolemy. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, marking its specific use as a geographical location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4424}}` is in the book of Acts, where it marks a stop on a journey. After finishing their course from Tyre, the travelers arrived at **Ptolemais**, where they saluted the brethren and stayed with them for one day [[Acts 21:7]]. The context establishes it as a city in Palestine, serving as a port of call for those traveling in the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify its setting and the events that took place there:
* `{{G5184}}` **Týros** (Tyrus (i.e. Tsor), a place in Palestine:--Tyre): This is the city from which the journey to Ptolemais began, establishing a direct geographical link [[Acts 21:7]].
* `{{G782}}` **aspázomai** (to enfold in the arms, i.e. (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome): This describes the action taken upon arrival in Ptolemais, where the travelers greeted the local believers [[Acts 21:7]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote): This identifies the people who were greeted in Ptolemais, referring to fellow believers in the faith.
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (a primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.): This particle connects the narrative sequence, linking the completion of the journey from Tyre to the arrival in Ptolemais [[Acts 21:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4424}}` is found not in the name itself, but in the context of its single appearance.
* **A Point of Fellowship:** The arrival at Ptolemais is significant because it is immediately followed by the act to **salute** `{{G782}}` the **brethren** `{{G80}}` [[Acts 21:7]]. This highlights the importance of community and connection among early believers.
* **Documenting the Journey:** The specific mention of **Ptolemais** `{{G4424}}` alongside **Tyre** `{{G5184}}` provides a concrete detail in the travel narrative, grounding the account in real-world geography and movement.
* **Context for Action:** The location serves as the setting where Christian fellowship is expressed through welcoming and greeting fellow believers, demonstrating a key practice of the early church.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4424}}` **Ptolemaḯs** is a specific geographical term rather than a complex theological concept. Its singular use in scripture serves to pinpoint a location on a journey, adding historical and geographical detail to the biblical narrative. The significance of **Ptolemais** is derived entirely from the events that occurred there: the welcoming of fellow **brethren**, which underscores the theme of Christian fellowship in the early church.
TRV