### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhýmē**, represented by `{{G4505}}`, refers to an alley or avenue, often one that is crowded. Its base definition is a prolongation from ῥύομαι. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is translated as "lane" or "street."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4505}}` is used to specify particular types of thoroughfares. Jesus warns against hypocrites who perform their acts of almsgiving in the **streets** `{{G4505}}` simply to be seen by others [[Matthew 6:2]]. In the book of Acts, it designates a specific location for a divine appointment when the Lord tells Ananias to go to the **street** `{{G4505}}` called Straight to find Saul [[Acts 9:11]]. It also marks Peter's path to freedom after his miraculous release from prison, as he passes through one **street** `{{G4505}}` before the angel departs [[Acts 12:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
A related word provides a clearer understanding of the specific meaning of `{{G4505}}`:
* `{{G4113}}` **plateîa** (a wide "plat" or "place", i.e. open square:--street): This term for a broader street or public square appears alongside `{{G4505}}` in [[Luke 14:21]]. The master of the house commands his servant to go into the "streets `{{G4113}}` and **lanes** `{{G4505}}`" of the city, suggesting a comprehensive search of both the main public squares and the narrower alleyways.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4505}}` carries contextual significance in several ways.
* **Setting for Hypocrisy:** Jesus uses the **streets** `{{G4505}}` as an example of a public place where insincere piety is performed for human glory, contrasting it with private, genuine devotion [[Matthew 6:2]].
* **Path of Divine Purpose:** The word marks the location of key moments in God's plan. The **street** `{{G4505}}` called Straight is the precise place where Saul's conversion journey continues [[Acts 9:11]], and a **street** `{{G4505}}` is part of Peter's path from imprisonment to freedom [[Acts 12:10]].
* **Scope of Gospel Outreach:** In the parable of the great supper, the command to go into the "streets and **lanes** `{{G4505}}`" symbolizes the expansive nature of God's invitation, which extends beyond the main areas to the narrow, less prominent places to reach the poor and marginalized [[Luke 14:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4505}}` is more than just a general term for a street. It often signifies a narrower lane or alley, sometimes contrasted with the wider public square denoted by `{{G4113}}` **plateîa**. Though a simple geographical term, it serves as the backdrop for lessons on hypocrisy, the execution of divine commands, and the all-encompassing call of the gospel to every part of the city.
TRV