Brief Overview of Ἀραβία (G688: Arabía)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Arabía

Root Words:

• The term Ἀραβία (Arabía) derives from the Greek word for the region known as Arabia.

Primary Meanings:

• Geographical Region: Refers to the historical and geographical region of Arabia, situated in the southwestern part of Asia, encompassing parts of modern-day Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and other surrounding areas.
• Historical Context: Represents the land and people of Arabia during the time of the Greek and Roman periods.

In the Greek context, Ἀραβία denotes the territory and people of Arabia, which played a significant role in ancient trade routes and interactions with neighboring civilizations.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG describes Ἀραβία as the geographical area known as Arabia, highlighting its significance in historical and trade contexts. The term is used to refer to the land and its inhabitants, providing context for its geographical and cultural relevance.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon identifies Ἀραβία as the land of the Arabs, emphasizing its location in the Arabian Peninsula and its historical importance.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that Ἀραβία refers to the Arabian Peninsula, stressing its geographical and historical significance in ancient times.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon lists Ἀραβία as the region of Arabia, including its usage in historical and geographical contexts.

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Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines Ἀραβία as Arabia, the region in southwestern Asia known for its historical and geographical importance.

Bible Verses:

• Mark 7:31 (KJV): “And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis.”
• The mention of regions around Arabia highlights its geographical significance.
• Acts 2:11 (KJV): “Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.”
• This verse mentions Arabians, referring to the people of Arabia and indicating their presence and influence.
• Galatians 1:17 (KJV): “Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.”
• Paul’s journey to Arabia is mentioned, emphasizing the region’s relevance in his missionary travels.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, Ἀραβία is used to refer to the Arabian region:

• Herodotus mentions Arabia in his historical accounts, describing its geography and people.
• Strabo includes Arabia in his geographical descriptions, detailing the land and its significance.
• Pliny the Elder refers to Arabia in his works, highlighting its role in trade and interactions with other regions.

4. Summary:

The Greek term Ἀραβία (G688: Arabía) refers to the geographical and historical region known as Arabia. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ emphasize its significance as a land and its role in historical contexts. The term is used in biblical texts to denote both the region and its people, reflecting its historical importance. Classic Greek literature provides additional context, detailing the geographical and cultural aspects of Arabia.