### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Σπανία (Spanía), Strong's `{{G4681}}`, is a proper noun referring to the geographical region known as Spain, located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Its base definition indicates a probable foreign origin, suggesting it is a transliteration or adaptation of a non-Greek term used by the indigenous peoples or other cultures for this land. Semantically, Σπανία is precise and fixed, denoting a specific ancient territory. It does not possess a broad semantic range beyond its direct geographical referent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Σπανία (Spanía) appears only once in the New Testament, within Paul's Epistle to the Romans, specifically in [[Romans 15:24]] and [[Romans 15:28]]. In this passage, Paul outlines his future missionary plans. Having largely completed his work in the eastern Mediterranean, he expresses a strong desire to travel to Spain, making a stop in Rome on his way.
* In [[Romans 15:24]], Paul states, "when I go to Spain, I hope to see you in passing, and to be sped on my way there by you, when I have first enjoyed your company for a while."
* He reiterates this intention in [[Romans 15:28]]: "When therefore I have accomplished this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you."
The context reveals Paul's apostolic strategy to preach the Gospel "where Christ was not named" ([[Romans 15:20]]). Spain, representing the westernmost frontier of the Roman Empire and the known world, symbolized the ultimate geographical reach for his missionary endeavors. Paul's desire to visit Spain underscores his commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission and expanding the Kingdom of God into new territories.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a proper noun, Σπανία (Spanía) lacks direct lexical synonyms within the biblical text. However, it is conceptually linked to other geographical terms that denote regions of significant missionary activity or destinations for apostolic travel, such as:
* Ἀσία (Asia) `{{G773}}`
* Μακεδονία (Macedonia) `{{G3109}}`
* Ἀχαΐα (Achaia) `{{G882}}`
* Ἰταλία (Italia) `{{G2482}}`, specifically Rome, which Paul intended to visit en route to Spain.
The mention of Spain also connects to the broader biblical concept of the "ends of the earth" ([[Acts 1:8]]), representing the furthest extent to which the Gospel was commissioned to spread. Furthermore, it evokes the concept of missionary "journeys" or "travels" (πορεία `{{G4197}}`, ὁδός `{{G3598}}`), which were central to Paul's ministry.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of Σπανία (Spanía) in Paul's epistle, though brief, carries profound theological implications.
* **Universal Scope of the Gospel:** Paul's ambition to preach in Spain highlights his conviction that the Gospel message is for all peoples and nations ([[Matthew 28:19]], [[Revelation 7:9]]), extending even to the geographical limits of the known world. It underscores the boundless nature of God's redemptive plan.
* **Apostolic Zeal and Strategic Vision:** Paul's desire to reach Spain, a region where the Gospel had likely not yet been proclaimed by an apostle, exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the Great Commission. It demonstrates a strategic vision for planting churches and establishing Christian witness in unreached territories.
* **The Outward Thrust of Mission:** While the book of Acts does not explicitly record Paul's journey to Spain, his stated intention serves as a powerful symbol of the ongoing, dynamic, and outward-moving nature of the Christian mission. It reminds believers that the Gospel is not meant to be confined but is to be proclaimed to new peoples and places continually.
* **Partnership in Ministry:** Paul's request for the Roman church's support for his journey to Spain illustrates the communal and collaborative nature of missionary endeavor, emphasizing the interdependence of believers in fulfilling God's purposes.
### Summary
The Greek term Σπανία (Spanía), Strong's `{{G4681}}`, is a precise geographical designation for Spain, appearing exclusively in [[Romans 15:24]] and [[Romans 15:28]]. Its significance lies not in its lexical breadth but in its contextual placement within Paul's missionary strategy. Paul's stated intention to travel to Spain underscores the universal scope of the Gospel, his apostolic zeal to preach Christ where He had not yet been named, and the strategic vision necessary for expanding the Kingdom of God. This brief reference powerfully symbolizes the outward, unceasing movement of the Christian mission to the "ends of the earth," driven by divine commission and supported by the fellowship of believers.
TRV