### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Phóron**, represented by `{{G5410}}`, is a term of Latin origin meaning a **forum** or market-place. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its use in scripture is highly specific, identifying a station known as the "Appii **forum**" on the Appian road, a well-known Roman thoroughfare.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical appearance, `{{G5410}}` is used to name the location where the Apostle Paul was met by fellow believers. As Paul traveled toward Rome, the **brethren** `{{G80}}` there **heard** `{{G191}}` he was coming and **came** `{{G1831}}` out to meet him. This meeting occurred at the 'Appii **forum**' [[Acts 28:15]]. The event was a pivotal moment of encouragement for Paul, who, upon seeing them, "thanked **God** `{{G2316}}`, and took **courage** `{{G2294}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other words in its immediate context help illustrate the scene at the Appii **forum**:
* `{{G4999}}` **Tabérnai** (taverns): Meaning "huts or wooden-walled buildings," this word identifies another location mentioned alongside the **forum** where the brethren met Paul [[Acts 28:15]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This term, meaning a **brother**, identifies the believers whose arrival at the **forum** was the direct cause of Paul’s encouragement.
* `{{G1831}}` **exérchomai** (to issue (literally or figuratively)): This verb describes the action of the brethren who **came** forth from the city to meet Paul on his journey [[Acts 28:15]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): This word conveys Paul’s perception of the brethren. When Paul **saw** them, it prompted his response of gratitude and renewed courage [[Acts 28:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5410}}` is derived not from the word itself but from the event that transpired at the location it names.
* **Encouragement Through Fellowship:** The Appii **forum** serves as the backdrop for a powerful demonstration of Christian encouragement. The sight of the **brethren** `{{G80}}` who came to meet him caused Paul to take **courage** `{{G2294}}`, reinforcing the importance of community support [[Acts 28:15]].
* **Gratitude to God:** Paul’s immediate reaction was to **thank** `{{G2168}}` **God** `{{G2316}}`. This act shows that tangible support from fellow believers is a blessing for which God is to be given thanks.
* **A Place of Meeting:** Though a secular market-place, the **forum** is marked in scripture as a place where the church came out to strengthen its leaders. It underscores the active, mobile nature of Christian fellowship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5410}}` **Phóron** is a specific geographical term for a **forum** or market-place. Its sole use in scripture pinpoints the location on the Appian road where fellow believers met the Apostle Paul. The event at the "Appii **forum**" serves as a lasting biblical illustration of the power of fellowship to bring encouragement and inspire gratitude to **God** `{{G2316}}`, turning an ordinary landmark into a site of significant spiritual renewal for Paul [[Acts 28:15]].
TRV