### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Phílippoi**, represented by `{{G5375}}`, is the name for **Philippi**, a place in Macedonia. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Scripture identifies it as a significant location, describing it as "the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony" [[Acts 16:12]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5375}}` marks a key site for the ministry of the Apostle Paul. It is where he addresses "the saints in Christ Jesus which are at **Philippi**, with the bishops and deacons" [[Philippians 1:1]]. The location is also associated with hardship, as Paul reminds the Thessalonians of how he and his companions had "suffered before, and were shamefully entreated... at **Philippi**" [[1 Thessalonians 2:2]]. The city serves as a point of departure in Paul's journeys, as he and his companions "sailed away from **Philippi** after the days of unleavened bread" [[Acts 20:6]]. Postscripts to two epistles also note they were written from **Philippi** ([[1 Corinthians 16:24]]; [[2 Corinthians 13:14]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the city of Philippi:
* `{{G3109}}` **Makedonía** (Macedonia, a region of Greece): This term establishes the broader geographical region of Philippi. The city is specifically described as the "chief city of that part of **Macedonia**" [[Acts 16:12]].
* `{{G4172}}` **pólis** (a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size):--city): This word classifies Philippi as an urban center. The narrative states that Paul's group was "in that **city** abiding certain days" [[Acts 16:12]].
* `{{G2862}}` **kolōnía** (of Latin origin; a Roman "colony" for veterans:--colony): This designation highlights Philippi's specific political and civil status within the Roman Empire, as it is uniquely identified as a **colony** [[Acts 16:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G5375}}` is primarily historical and missional, marking a pivotal location for the expansion of the early church.
* **A Center for Church Life:** Philippi was home to an established community of believers, complete with recognized leadership roles such as "bishops and deacons" [[Philippians 1:1]].
* **A Site of Gospel Opposition:** The city was a place of significant trial for Paul, who endured suffering and shameful treatment there, yet continued to preach the gospel boldly [[1 Thessalonians 2:2]].
* **Roman Administrative Importance:** Its identity as a "chief city" and a Roman "colony" underscores how the gospel was advancing into influential centers of the Roman world [[Acts 16:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5375}}` is more than just a place name. It represents a strategic center in the narrative of the New Testament. As a chief city and Roman colony in Macedonia, Philippi was the location of a foundational church community, a site of severe persecution for the sake of the gospel, and a key base of operations during the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul.
TRV