### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Σαμοθρᾴκη** (Samothráikē, `{{G4543}}`) denotes a specific geographical location: the island of Samothrace in the northern Aegean Sea. Its etymology, as indicated by its base definition, is a compound of "Samos" and "Thrace," literally "Samos of Thrace." This nomenclature distinguished it from the larger island of Samos further south and highlighted its proximity to the region of Thrace. As a proper noun, its semantic range is strictly limited to this particular island, carrying no broader metaphorical or abstract meanings. It functions solely as a geographical marker within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word **Σαμοθρᾴκη** (Samothráikē, `{{G4543}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Acts 16:11]]. This occurrence is found within the account of Paul's second missionary journey. The passage describes the itinerary of Paul and his companions after receiving the "Macedonian call": "So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct course to Samothrace, and the next day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony."
In this context, Samothrace serves as a crucial geographical waypoint. The phrase "made a direct course" (εὐθυδρομήσαμεν, literally "we ran straight") suggests a favorable wind allowed them to reach the island swiftly, perhaps anchoring overnight before continuing their journey. This detail underscores the practical realities of ancient sea travel and the providential guidance that facilitated Paul's mission. Samothrace was not a destination for ministry, but a necessary stop on the journey that would ultimately lead to the evangelization of Philippi and, by extension, the European continent. Its inclusion highlights the meticulous geographical accuracy of the Lucan narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that **Σαμοθρᾴκη** (Samothráikē, `{{G4543}}`) is a geographical proper noun, related words and concepts primarily revolve around the itinerary of Paul's missionary journeys and the spread of the Gospel.
* **Geographical Locations:** Other places mentioned in the immediate vicinity or as part of the same journey include Troas ([[Acts 16:8]]), Neapolis ([[Acts 16:11]]), Philippi ([[Acts 16:12]]), and the broader region of Macedonia ([[Acts 16:9]], [[Acts 16:12]]). These locations collectively form the setting for the Gospel's initial expansion into Europe.
* **Travel and Journeys:** The concept of missionary travel is central, involving sea voyages (implied by "setting sail") and land journeys. This relates to the broader theme of the apostles' itinerant ministry.
* **Divine Guidance:** The journey to Samothrace and beyond is directly linked to the vision Paul received (the "Macedonian call"), indicating divine direction in the apostles' movements and the strategic unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
* **Spreading the Gospel:** Ultimately, Samothrace is a minor, yet essential, stepping stone in the larger narrative of the Gospel's expansion from Asia Minor into Europe, fulfilling the Great Commission.
### Theological Significance
While the island of Samothrace itself holds no inherent theological symbolism or profound spiritual meaning, its mention in [[Acts 16:11]] is profoundly significant within the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan. Samothrace represents a concrete, historical point on the trajectory of the Gospel's westward advance. It was a necessary stop on the journey that led Paul to Philippi, the first city in Europe where a Christian church was established.
Theologically, Samothrace serves as a silent witness to the meticulous providence of God. The favorable wind that allowed a "direct course" to the island can be seen as a subtle indication of divine favor, facilitating the mission. It underscores that even the seemingly mundane details of travel and geography are woven into God's sovereign plan for the evangelization of the world. The brief reference to Samothrace thus points to the practical outworking of God's call, demonstrating how God uses specific places and circumstances to accomplish His purposes, guiding His servants to strategic locations for the propagation of the Good News. It marks the physical gateway to a new continent for the Gospel.
### Summary
**Σαμοθρᾴκη** (Samothráikē, `{{G4543}}`) refers specifically to the island of Samothrace in the northern Aegean Sea, deriving its name from its association with Samos and Thrace. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Acts 16:11]] places it as a key geographical waypoint during Paul's second missionary journey. As Paul and his companions sailed from Troas, Samothrace was the first stop before they continued to Neapolis and then to Philippi, marking the initial entry point for the Gospel into Europe. While not a place of ministry itself, its mention highlights the practicalities of ancient travel and, more importantly, the precise providence of God guiding Paul's movements to fulfill the "Macedonian call" and establish Christianity on a new continent. Thus, Samothrace stands as a silent, yet significant, detail in the unfolding of God's global redemptive mission.
TRV