probably from σάλος (from the surge on the shore); Salamis, a place in Cyprus:--Salamis.
Transliteration:Salamís
Pronunciation:sal-am-ece'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G4529 (Σαλαμίς, *Salamís*) denotes a specific geographical location: Salamis, a significant city situated on the eastern coast of the island of Cyprus. The etymological suggestion, as provided by the base definition, links *Salamís* to σάλος (*salos*), which describes "the surge on the shore" or "tossing, agitation of the sea." This etymological connection strongly implies a coastal city, likely known for its harbor or its exposure to the dynamic forces of the sea. As a proper noun, *Salamís* carries a fixed geographical meaning within the biblical text and does not possess a broader metaphorical or abstract semantic range beyond its identity as a specific place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4529 (Salamís) appears only once in the New Testament, providing a crucial geographical marker in the narrative of the early Christian mission.
* [[Acts 13:5]]: "When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper."
This verse describes the arrival of Paul (then still referred to as Saul), Barnabas, and John Mark in Salamis, marking the commencement of their first missionary journey. Cyprus was the homeland of Barnabas ([[Acts 4:36]]), making it a logical initial destination. Salamis was a major port city and a significant center for Jewish communities, evidenced by the mention of "Jewish synagogues." This fact highlights the apostles' consistent strategy of first proclaiming the Gospel within existing Jewish frameworks before turning to the Gentiles. The city of Salamis thus served as a strategic entry point for the apostles' evangelistic efforts, demonstrating their methodical approach to spreading the Gospel throughout the Roman world. From Salamis, the missionary team traversed the entire island to Paphos, continuing their mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a proper noun designating a place, G4529 (Salamís) is inherently linked to several broader biblical concepts and terms:
* **Geographical Terms:** *Salamís* is related to other place names mentioned in connection with the apostolic missions, such as Antioch, Paphos, Perga, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. These locations collectively trace the geographical expansion of the early church.
* **Missionary Journeys:** The appearance of *Salamís* is intrinsically tied to the "first missionary journey" of Paul and Barnabas. This overarching theme encompasses the spread of the Gospel, the challenges encountered by early missionaries, and the establishment of nascent Christian communities.
* **Synagogues:** The mention of "Jewish synagogues" in Salamis connects the word to the Jewish diaspora and the initial apostolic strategy of presenting Christ within these established religious settings, emphasizing the continuity between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment.
* **Cyprus:** *Salamís* is a city on the island of Cyprus. The island itself holds significance as Barnabas's birthplace and a vital early mission field for the burgeoning Christian movement.
### Theological Significance
While G4529 (Salamís) is primarily a geographical identifier, its specific mention in the biblical narrative imbues it with theological significance as a setting for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
* **Divine Providence and Strategic Outreach:** The selection of Salamis as the initial point of entry for the first missionary journey underscores God's providential guidance in the strategic expansion of the early church. As a well-established city with a significant Jewish population, it offered a natural and effective gateway for the Gospel message.
* **The Universality of the Gospel:** The journey commencing in Salamis and extending across Cyprus, and subsequently beyond, vividly illustrates the universal scope of the Gospel message, which is intended for "all nations" ([[Matthew 28:19]]). It marks a pivotal moment in the systematic effort to bring the Good News beyond the immediate confines of Jerusalem and Judea.
* **Apostolic Obedience and Witness:** The apostles' arrival and proclamation in Salamis serve as a powerful example of their obedience to the Great Commission and their unwavering commitment to being Christ's witnesses "to the ends of the earth" ([[Acts 1:8]]). The city, though briefly mentioned, stands as a silent testament to their faithfulness.
* **A New Era of Mission:** The mission initiated from Salamis represents a significant escalation in the Gentile mission, even as the initial focus remained on the synagogues. It symbolizes the church's proactive and intentional movement into new territories, broadening its reach and impact.
### Summary
G4529 (Σαλαμίς, *Salamís*) identifies a prominent port city on the eastern coast of Cyprus, likely named due to its coastal characteristics and the "surge on the shore." Its singular appearance in the New Testament, in [[Acts 13:5]], designates it as the initial landing point for Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark on their foundational first missionary journey. The presence of multiple Jewish synagogues in Salamis rendered it a strategic starting point for their evangelistic endeavors, aligning with their practice of first proclaiming the Gospel to the Jews. Theologically, Salamis functions as a testament to God's providential direction in the strategic expansion of the early church, highlighting the apostles' obedience to the Great Commission and underscoring the universal reach of the Gospel message as it began its systematic dissemination beyond its initial geographical boundaries. Its role, though concisely stated in the biblical text, is fundamental to comprehending the geographical and strategic unfolding of the early Christian mission.
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