### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Arabía**, represented by `{{G688}}`, is of Hebrew origin (עֲרָב) and refers to **Arabia**, a region of Asia. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, **Arabía** is mentioned exclusively in the book of Galatians. It is first identified as the location of Paul's retreat following his conversion, a place he went to before visiting the apostles in Jerusalem [[Galatians 1:17]]. Later in the same epistle, **Arabía** is identified as the region containing Mount Sinai. This geographical placement is part of an allegory contrasting the old covenant with the new [[Galatians 4:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of **Arabía**:
* `{{G4614}}` **Sinâ** (Sina (i.e. Sinai), a mountain in Arabia): This term is directly linked, as Mount **Sinai** is explicitly located within **Arabia** in the text [[Galatians 4:25]].
* `{{G2414}}` **Hierosólyma** (Hierosolyma (i.e. Jerushalaim), the capitol of Palestine): This word for **Jerusalem** is used in contrast to **Arabia**, as Paul notes he went to **Arabia** instead of going up to **Jerusalem** to see the other apostles [[Galatians 1:17]].
* `{{G2419}}` **Hierousalḗm** (Hierusalem (i.e. Jerushalem), the capitol of Palestine): This form of **Jerusalem** is used allegorically, where the earthly **Jerusalem** "which now is" is compared to Mount Sinai in **Arabia** [[Galatians 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G688}}` is significant within the arguments presented in Galatians.
* **Apostolic Preparation:** Paul's journey into **Arabía** immediately after his conversion highlights a period of preparation separate from the influence of the apostles in Jerusalem. This supports his claim that his ministry was not received from men [[Galatians 1:17]].
* **Symbol of the Old Covenant:** In an important allegory, **Arabía** is the setting for Mount Sinai, which represents the covenant of law that "gendereth to bondage" [[Galatians 4:24]]. It is contrasted with the earthly **Jerusalem** which "is in bondage" [[Galatians 4:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G688}}` **Arabía**, though appearing only twice, serves a crucial dual function in the New Testament. It is both a literal destination in the life of the Apostle Paul, marking a formative period in his early ministry [[Galatians 1:17]], and a powerful symbolic location representing the Old Covenant given at Mount Sinai [[Galatians 4:25]]. Its use is central to understanding Paul's apostolic authority and his theological contrast between law and grace.
TRV