### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Syría**, represented by `{{G4947}}`, identifies **Syria**, a significant region of Asia. Its definition, "probably of Hebrew origin (צֹר); Syria (i.e. Tsyria or Tyre)," suggests a connection to Tyre. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily functioning as a geographical and political marker in the New Testament narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4947}}` is used to frame key historical events and missionary activities. It establishes a historical setting for the birth of Jesus, noting that the first **taxing** `{{G582}}` occurred when **Cyrenius** `{{G2958}}` was **governor** `{{G2230}}` of **Syria** [[Luke 2:2]]. Early in Jesus' ministry, his **fame** `{{G189}}` spread throughout all of **Syria**, leading people from that region to bring him their sick to be **healed** `{{G2323}}` [[Matthew 4:24]]. In the book of Acts, **Syria** becomes a central territory for the expansion of the early church. Paul traveled extensively through its **regions** `{{G2824}}`, often with Cilicia `{{G2791}}`, to **confirm** `{{G1991}}` the **churches** `{{G1577}}` ([[Acts 15:41]], [[Galatians 1:21]]). It was a key destination on his missionary journeys by both land and sea ([[Acts 18:18]], [[Acts 21:3]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help place `{{G4947}}` in its geographical and apostolic context:
* `{{G2791}}` **Kilikía** (Cilicia): A region of Asia Minor frequently mentioned alongside **Syria** `{{G4947}}` as a field for Paul’s ministry and the location of early churches [[Acts 15:41]].
* `{{G490}}` **Antiócheia** (Antioch): A major city described as being in **Syria** `{{G4947}}` that became a vital center for the Gentile mission and a destination for apostolic letters [[Acts 15:23]].
* `{{G5184}}` **Týros** (Tyre): A port city in Palestine where a ship sailing **into** `{{G1519}}` **Syria** `{{G4947}}` landed to **unlade** `{{G670}}` its **burden** `{{G1117}}`, directly linking the region to this major coastal hub [[Acts 21:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4947}}` is primarily historical and missiological. It serves as a backdrop for the expansion of the gospel into the Gentile world.
* **Hub for Gentile Mission:** **Syria** was a foundational region for Gentile Christianity. The churches there were recipients of the apostolic decree regarding Gentile believers, marking a pivotal moment in church history [[Acts 15:23]]. Paul's work strengthening these churches demonstrates the region's importance in the early growth of the faith [[Acts 15:41]].
* **Historical Anchor:** The reference to **Syria** under Governor Cyrenius provides a specific political and historical frame for the narrative of Jesus's birth, grounding the event in the context of the Roman Empire [[Luke 2:2]].
* **Early Reach of Christ’s Ministry:** The fact that Jesus’ fame spread throughout **Syria** so early highlights the immediate and widespread impact of His work, showing that reports of his power were not confined to local Jewish areas [[Matthew 4:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4947}}` is more than just a place on a map; it is a region of immense importance in the New Testament. From setting the historical stage for the nativity to being a primary territory for the apostle Paul’s missionary work, **Syria** represents the expansion of the gospel message. Its repeated mention in the book of Acts charts the movement of the faith from its origins in Judaea into the broader Gentile world of the Roman Empire.
TRV