### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Τρωγύλλιον (Trōgýllion, `{{G5175}}`) is a proper noun, referring exclusively to a specific geographical location in ancient Asia Minor. Its base definition indicates a place name, Trogyllium, with its derivation noted as "of uncertain derivation." As a proper noun designating a physical landmark, it possesses no broader semantic range or metaphorical applications. Its meaning is strictly denotative, identifying a particular promontory or port on the Ionian coast, near the island of Samos and the city of Miletus. Unlike verbs or abstract nouns, Τρωγύλλιον does not convey an action, state, or concept beyond its identity as a geographical marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Τρωγύλλιον (Trōgýllion, `{{G5175}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts.
* **[[Acts 20:15]]**: "And sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day after that we came to Miletus; having remained at Trogyllium, we arrived the next day at Miletus."
The context is Paul's third missionary journey, specifically his return voyage from Macedonia and Greece to Jerusalem. Luke, the meticulous historian, details the precise itinerary of the ship carrying Paul and his companions. The mention of Trogyllium serves as a geographical waypoint, indicating a brief stopover or a passage through the waters adjacent to this promontory. Scholars debate whether the ship merely sailed past or anchored for a short period. Regardless, its inclusion underscores the historical accuracy and detailed record-keeping characteristic of Luke's narrative. It places Paul's journey firmly within the known geography of the ancient world, providing verisimilitude to the account of the early church's missionary endeavors.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that Τρωγύλλιον (Trōgýllion, `{{G5175}}`) is a unique proper noun, it does not have synonyms or antonyms in the typical lexical sense. However, it is conceptually related to:
* **Ancient Geography**: It situates the narrative within the known geographical landscape of the Roman Empire, particularly the Aegean Sea and the coast of Asia Minor. Other place names mentioned in close proximity in [[Acts 20]] include Chios, Samos, Miletus, Assos, Mitylene, Coos, Rhodes, and Patara, all contributing to the detailed itinerary.
* **Maritime Travel**: The mention of Trogyllium highlights the realities of ancient sea voyages, which involved navigating coastlines, making stops at various ports or sheltered anchorages, and being subject to winds and currents. This connects to broader concepts of travel and logistics in the apostolic era.
* **Luke's Historiography**: The precise inclusion of such a minor geographical detail reinforces Luke's reputation as a careful and accurate historian, providing a robust historical framework for the theological message of Acts. This attention to detail is consistent with other passages in Acts where specific locations and officials are named (e.g., [[Acts 13:7]] with Sergius Paulus, [[Acts 18:12]] with Gallio).
### Theological Significance
While Τρωγύλλιον (Trōgýllion, `{{G5175}}`) itself holds no inherent theological meaning, its inclusion in the biblical narrative carries indirect theological significance:
* **Divine Providence in Mundane Details**: The meticulous recording of geographical waypoints, even seemingly insignificant ones like Trogyllium, subtly underscores the divine oversight of Paul's journey. Every step, every stop, every passage was part of God's sovereign plan to advance His kingdom and bring the Gospel to specific regions and ultimately to Jerusalem. It reminds us that God's hand is at work not only in miraculous interventions but also in the ordinary, logistical details of human endeavor.
* **Reliability of Scripture**: The historical precision evidenced by the mention of Trogyllium contributes to the overall trustworthiness and reliability of the book of Acts. If Luke is accurate in such minor, verifiable details, it strengthens the reader's confidence in the larger, theological claims of the text regarding the work of the Holy Spirit and the spread of the Gospel. This historical grounding provides a firm foundation for faith.
* **Humanity of Apostolic Ministry**: The journey through places like Trogyllium emphasizes the human reality of Paul's ministry. He was a man who traveled by ordinary means, facing the same challenges of ancient travel as anyone else. This grounds the extraordinary divine mission in the tangible experiences of human agents, reminding us that God uses ordinary people in ordinary circumstances to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.
### Summary
Τρωγύλλιον (Trōgýllion, `{{G5175}}`) is a proper noun designating a specific geographical location in Asia Minor, mentioned only once in [[Acts 20:15]]. Its inclusion serves as a precise waypoint on Paul's return journey to Jerusalem during his third missionary trip. While devoid of inherent theological meaning, its presence highlights Luke's meticulous historical accuracy, contributing to the overall reliability of the biblical narrative. Furthermore, it subtly underscores God's providential guidance even in the seemingly mundane details of travel, affirming that every aspect of the apostolic mission was divinely purposed and overseen. The journey through places like Trogyllium reminds us of the tangible reality of the early church's endeavors and the sovereign hand of God at work in the lives of His servants.
TRV