### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Áreios Págos**, represented by `{{G697}}`, identifies a specific location in Athens: the **Areopagus**, or **Mars' Hill**. The name literally means "rock of Ares," derived from the Greek deity of war. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G697}}` is the setting for a significant confrontation of ideas. The Athenians **took** Paul and **brought him** unto the **Areopagus** to question him about the "new doctrine" he was speaking about [[Acts 17:19]]. Subsequently, Paul **stood** in the midst of **Mars' hill** to deliver his famous sermon to the "men of **Athens**," where he perceived them to be "too superstitious" [[Acts 17:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the events at the Areopagus:
* `{{G117}}` **Athēnaîos** (Athenian): This term identifies an inhabitant of Athens. Paul directly addresses the **Athenians** during his speech at Mars' Hill [[Acts 17:22]]. The text also notes that all **Athenians** spent their time telling or hearing new things [[Acts 17:21]].
* `{{G1949}}` **epilambánomai** (to seize, take hold of): This verb describes the action of bringing Paul to the Areopagus, where they **took** him to question his doctrine [[Acts 17:19]]. It is also used figuratively, such as to **lay hold on** eternal life [[1 Timothy 6:12]].
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (to stand): This word describes Paul's posture as he begins his address, where he **stood** in the midst of Mars' Hill [[Acts 17:22]]. It can also signify permanence, as in the "foundation of God **standeth** sure" [[2 Timothy 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G697}}` is derived from its role as the stage for a pivotal New Testament event.
* **Platform for Proclamation:** The **Areopagus** serves as the location where Paul is **brought** to explain his "new doctrine" [[Acts 17:19]]. By having Paul **stand** `{{G2476}}` and **speak** `{{G2980}}` here, the narrative establishes a formal setting for the gospel's presentation to an intellectual Gentile audience.
* **Engagement with Philosophy:** On **Mars' Hill**, the Christian message directly engages with the culture of the **Athenians** `{{G117}}`. Paul begins his address by **perceiving** `{{G2334}}` their religious devotion, described as being "too superstitious," using it as a bridge to his message [[Acts 17:22]].
* **The Demand for Knowledge:** The very reason for the event at the **Areopagus** is the Athenians' desire to **know** `{{G1097}}` Paul's teaching [[Acts 17:19]]. This highlights a theme of intellectual curiosity being met with divine revelation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G697}}` is more than just a geographical name. While it literally refers to the **Areopagus** or **Mars' Hill** in Athens, its biblical significance is tied to its function as the backdrop for Paul's address to the Athenians. The two occurrences of the word frame a critical moment where Paul is **brought** `{{G71}}` to account for his beliefs and **stands** `{{G2476}}` to proclaim the gospel, transforming a place of pagan judgment into a platform for Christian witness.
TRV