### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Sidṓnios**, represented by `{{G4606}}`, is a term for a **Sidonian**, meaning an inhabitant of the city of Sidon. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its significance is derived entirely from its singular use, which places the people of Sidon within a specific political and economic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4606}}` is in the narrative of [[Acts 12:20]]. In this passage, King Herod was "highly displeased" with the people of Tyre and Sidon. Faced with the king's anger and a critical dependency on his kingdom for food ("their country was nourished by the king's country"), the Sidonians, together with the Tyrians, sought a peaceful resolution. They approached Herod "with one accord" after first securing an ally in Blastus, the king's chamberlain, whom they persuaded to act as an intermediary.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same passage help to clarify the situation of the Sidonians:
* `{{G5183}}` **Týrios** (a Tyrian): This word identifies the inhabitants of Tyre, who are mentioned alongside the Sidonians. Their joint action in approaching Herod shows a regional alliance in the face of a shared crisis [[Acts 12:20]].
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince, pacify or conciliate): This verb describes the diplomatic action taken to win over Blastus. By making him their friend, the Sidonians were able to gain an audience with the king, demonstrating a strategy of persuasion and conciliation [[Acts 12:20]].
* `{{G1515}}` **eirḗnē** (peace, quietness, rest): This was the ultimate goal of the Sidonians' mission. They "desired **peace**" to resolve the conflict with Herod and secure their economic stability, which was under threat [[Acts 12:20]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G4606}}` itself is a simple demographic label, its context touches upon broader themes.
* **The Pursuit of Peace:** The Sidonians’ desire for **peace** `{{G1515}}` in a political and economic crisis reflects a practical application of a concept that is elsewhere presented as a spiritual fruit [[Galatians 5:22]] and a state believers are commanded to follow with all people [[Hebrews 12:14]].
* **Diplomacy and Conciliation:** The method used to achieve peace involved the act of persuasion, or **peíthō** `{{G3982}}`. This highlights a strategy of resolving conflict through intermediaries and conciliation rather than confrontation.
* **Worldly Dependence:** The narrative illustrates the vulnerability that comes from dependence on human systems for survival. The word used for the Sidonians' successful persuasion, **peíthō** `{{G3982}}`, is also used in other contexts to describe being **persuaded** of God's power [[Romans 8:38]] or having **confidence** in Christ, setting up a contrast between reliance on worldly powers and trust in God.
### Summary
In summary, **Sidṓnios** `{{G4606}}` is a specific term whose biblical importance is tied exclusively to its appearance in [[Acts 12:20]]. While simply meaning an inhabitant of Sidon, its usage places these people at the center of a tense narrative involving royal displeasure, economic reliance, and the delicate pursuit of peace. The word serves as a marker in a story that illustrates themes of conflict resolution, diplomacy, and the human need for peace and security.
TRV