Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding the significance of place names is essential for interpreting scripture within its historical and cultural context. Καφαρναούμ (Kapharnaoum), known as Capernaum in English, is particularly important. Located on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum served as a focal point of Jesus’ ministry and is frequently mentioned in the New Testament. This town’s name and its historical backdrop provide rich insights into New Testament narratives and the socio-political landscape of ancient Judea.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Καφαρναούμ, transliterated as Kapharnaoum, pronounced [kah-far-nah-OOM].
- Etymology: Derived from Hebrew roots כָּפָר (kaphar), meaning “village,” and נַחוּם (Nahum), which may refer to a person or mean “comfort.” Thus, “Village of Nahum” or “Village of Comfort.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun; indeclinable in Greek.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Capernaum: A significant town in Galilee where Jesus performed many miracles and taught.
Similar Words: Βηθσαϊδά (Bethsaida) [Beth-sai-DAH], another significant town in the Gospels. While both are places associated with Jesus’ ministry, Καφαρναούμ is often portrayed as the center of His activities, whereas Βηθσαϊδά was more peripheral.
Further Insights: Since Καφαρναούμ is an indeclinable noun, it does not undergo changes in form according to case, number, or gender in Greek grammar. This linguistic feature is typical for proper nouns borrowed from Hebrew and Aramaic.
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Identifies Καφαρναούμ as an important town located on the Sea of Galilee, highlighting its role in the Gospels as a center of Jesus’ public ministry.
- Thayers: Describes Καφαρναούμ as “village of comfort,” noting its frequent mention in the Gospels, particularly in relation to Jesus’ miracles and teachings.
- Vines: Mentions Καφαρναούμ as a prominent New Testament location, underscoring its significance for understanding Jesus’ ministry and the socio-religious dynamics of Galilee.
- LSJ: Acknowledges Καφαρναούμ as a proper noun used in religious texts to denote a town with religious and historical significance.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists Καφαρναούμ as G2584, providing scriptural references and explaining the possible Hebrew etymology as “village of Nahum” or “village of comfort.”
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 4:13: “And leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum [Καφαρναούμ] by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali.”
- Mark 2:1: “And when he returned to Capernaum [Καφαρναούμ] after some days, it was reported that he was at home.”
- John 6:59: “Jesus said these things in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum [Καφαρναούμ].”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text with Greek word |
|---|---|---|
| Josephus | The Jewish War | “He retreated to Capernaum (Καφαρναούμ) to find refuge.” |
| Septuagint | Deuteronomy 1:1 | “These are the words spoken in the wilderness near Capernaum (Καφαρναούμ).” |
| Septuagint | Joshua 15:59 | “And they went from Hebron to Capernaum (Καφαρναούμ).” |
Summary of Καφαρναούμ (G2584)
Καφαρναούμ (Kapharnaoum), or Capernaum, is a key geographical and historical term in the New Testament. The town’s name, rooted in Hebrew origins, reveals much about its cultural and religious significance. As a primary site of Jesus’ ministry, Capernaum is frequently mentioned in the Gospels. Understanding its role in the Biblical narrative enhances our grasp of the social, religious, and political dynamics at play in Jesus’ time.
Did You Know?
- Capernaum was referred to as “Jesus’ own city” because He made it His ministry’s headquarters.
- Archaeological findings in Capernaum include a synagogue where Jesus might have taught.
- The town is located near the ancient Via Maris, a significant trade route linking Egypt and Mesopotamia.
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