### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Beroiaîos**, represented by `{{G961}}`, is a specific geographical identifier meaning **a Berœoean or native of Berœa**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse. Its use is to pinpoint the origin of an individual within a group of fellow believers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G961}}` is found in [[Acts 20:4]]. In this verse, the word identifies Sopater as being **of Berea**. He is listed among a group of men who **accompanied** `{{G4902}}` an unnamed person ("him") into **Asia** `{{G773}}`. The context is a list of companions from various regions, including Thessalonians like Aristarchus and Secundus, Gaius of Derbe, Timotheus, and two men of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other words in [[Acts 20:4]] help establish the context of travel and companionship:
* `{{G4986}}` **Sṓpatros** (of a safe father; Sopatrus, a Christian): This is the individual who is identified as being from Berea [[Acts 20:4]].
* `{{G4902}}` **synépomai** (to attend (travel) in company with): This verb describes the action of the group, highlighting their role as travel companions [[Acts 20:4]].
* `{{G2331}}` **Thessalonikeús** (a Thessalonican, i.e. inhabitant of Thessalonice): Used in the same list to identify the origin of Aristarchus and Secundus, functioning in parallel with `{{G961}}` [[Acts 20:4]].
* `{{G1190}}` **Derbaîos** (a Derbæan or inhabitant of Derbe): This term is used to specify the origin of Gaius, further emphasizing the diverse geographical makeup of the group [[Acts 20:4]].
* `{{G774}}` **Asianós** (an Asian (i.e. Asiatic) or an inhabitant of Asia): This identifies Tychicus and Trophimus, showing the destination of the journey was also the home of some of the companions [[Acts 20:4]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G961}}` is a simple geographical term, its context in scripture points to broader themes:
* **Unity in Diversity:** The list in [[Acts 20:4]] explicitly names individuals from Berea, Thessalonica, Derbe, and Asia, showing a unified group of believers from different cities and regions traveling together for a common purpose.
* **The Nature of Companionship:** Sopater, the man "of Berea," is part of a group that chose to **accompany** `{{G4902}}` someone on a journey. This highlights the importance of support, fellowship, and shared labor in the early church.
* **Geographical Markers of Mission:** The use of specific identifiers like `{{G961}}` serves to ground the biblical narrative in real-world locations, mapping the movement and influence of the faith across Asia Minor.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G961}}` **Beroiaîos** is a term used once to give a specific detail about a person's origin. Its significance lies not in the word itself, but in its contribution to a passage that illustrates the collaborative and geographically widespread nature of early Christian ministry. It is a detail that enriches the biblical account, demonstrating how individuals from many different backgrounds came together to support one another in their travels.
TRV