### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Phrygía**, represented by `{{G5435}}`, identifies **Phrygia**, a region of Asia Minor. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the New Testament. The term designates a key territory in the apostolic ministry, particularly in the travels and church-strengthening efforts of Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Phrygia** `{{G5435}}` is mentioned as a region through which the Apostle Paul traveled on his missionary journeys. He and his companions had gone throughout **Phrygia** and the region of Galatia, but were forbidden by the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia [[Acts 16:6]]. Later, Paul went over the country of Galatia and **Phrygia** in order, strengthening all the disciples [[Acts 18:23]]. The region's significance is also seen at Pentecost, where Jews and proselytes from **Phrygia** were among those present in Jerusalem [[Acts 2:10]]. Furthermore, the epistle to Timothy identifies Laodicea as the chiefest city of **Phrygia** Pacatiana [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the activities and locations associated with **Phrygia**:
* `{{G1054}}` **Galatikós** (Galatic or relating to Galatia): This term is used to identify the neighboring region of Galatia, which Paul traversed along with **Phrygia** on his missionary journeys ([[Acts 16:6]], [[Acts 18:23]]).
* `{{G1330}}` **diérchomai** (to traverse): This verb describes the act of passing through a territory and is used to show how Paul and his companions had gone throughout **Phrygia** [[Acts 16:6]] and later went over the region [[Acts 18:23]].
* `{{G1991}}` **epistērízō** (to support further, i.e. reestablish): This word highlights the purpose of Paul's visit to **Phrygia**, which was for strengthening all the disciples there [[Acts 18:23]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical and strategic importance of `{{G5435}}` is evident in its biblical contexts:
* **Missionary Pathway:** **Phrygia** served as a crucial corridor for apostolic travel, connecting different regions of Asia Minor where the gospel was spreading [[Acts 16:6]].
* **Early Christian Presence:** The presence of people from **Phrygia** at Pentecost indicates that its inhabitants were among the first to hear the gospel message after Christ's ascension [[Acts 2:10]].
* **A Field for Discipleship:** The region was not merely a pass-through territory but a place where a community of disciples existed, necessitating Paul's return visit to strengthen them in the faith [[Acts 18:23]].
* **Administrative and Apostolic Center:** Containing Laodicea, identified as its "chiefest city" `{{G3390}}`, **Phrygia** was a region of administrative significance and is linked to the writing of an apostolic letter [[1 Timothy 6:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5435}}` **Phrygía** is more than a geographical name on a map of the ancient world. It represents a significant area in the narrative of the early church's expansion. Its repeated mention in Acts highlights its role as a key territory for missionary work and the nurturing of new believers. From the first converts at Pentecost to the established disciples strengthened by Paul, **Phrygia** stands as a testament to the gospel's reach into the regions of Asia Minor.
TRV