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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the original context and meaning of New Testament passages. The Greek word Ἰκόνιον (Ikónion) is significant because it refers to the ancient city of Iconium, an important location in the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. The city of Iconium, located in the region of Lycaonia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), plays a pivotal role in the Acts of the Apostles. Studying this word provides insight into the geographical, cultural, and historical contexts of early Christian missionary work and offers a deeper understanding of the early church’s expansion.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἰκόνιον, transliterated as Ikónion [ee-KOH-nee-on].
- Etymology: The exact etymology of Ἰκόνιον is uncertain, but it is believed to be derived from a pre-Greek or Phrygian root.
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (neuter).
- Grammatical Details: Declined as a second declension noun; singular only, as it refers to a specific place.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Iconium: A city in ancient Lycaonia, significant in early Christian history as a center of Paul’s missionary activities.
Similar Words: Λύστρα (Lýstra) [LOO-strah], another city mentioned in the New Testament, also located in Lycaonia. While both Ἰκόνιον and Λύστρα are cities involved in Paul’s missionary journeys, Λύστρα is notable for Paul’s healing of a lame man, whereas Ἰκόνιον is known for Paul’s extended ministry and the challenges he faced there.
Further Insights: Ἰκόνιον is a proper noun of the second declension. Here is the declension chart for Ἰκόνιον:
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Ἰκόνιον |
| Genitive | Ἰκονίου |
| Dative | Ἰκονίῳ |
| Accusative | Ἰκόνιον |
| Vocative | Ἰκόνιον |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Defines Ἰκόνιον as the “city of Iconium,” located in Lycaonia. It highlights the city’s significance in the Acts of the Apostles, where Paul and Barnabas preached and faced opposition (Acts 13:51, 14:1, 14:19, etc.).
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Thayers: Notes that Ἰκόνιον refers to a city in the southern part of the Roman province of Galatia. It emphasizes the city’s cultural diversity and its role in Paul’s missionary work.
Vines: Describes Ἰκόνιον as “a city of Asia Minor,” referencing its location in the province of Lycaonia. It points out the city’s strategic importance along ancient trade routes and the spread of early Christianity.
LSJ: Lists Ἰκόνιον as a “well-known city in Asia Minor.” It provides historical references to the city’s significance in classical Greek and Roman texts, including its mention by historians such as Xenophon.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines Ἰκόνιον (G2430) as “Iconium,” noting its appearance in the New Testament and its significance in the context of Paul’s missionary efforts and the challenges faced by early Christians there.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 13:51: “But they shook off the dust of their feet against them and came to Iconium [Ἰκόνιον].”
- Acts 14:1: “In Iconium [Ἰκονίῳ] they entered the synagogue of the Jews together, and spoke in such a manner that a large number of people believed, both of Jews and of Greeks.”
- Acts 14:19: “But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium [Ἰκονίου], and having won over the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Xenophon | Anabasis | “The army passed through the Phrygian city of Iconium (Ἰκόνιον) on their way to the coast.” |
| Strabo | Geography | “Iconium (Ἰκόνιον) is a well-known city in Lycaonia, situated on a fertile plain.” |
| Septuagint | Joshua (historical reference) | While Iconium is not mentioned directly in the Septuagint, it is noted in Jewish historical writings as a city on the frontier of Jewish and Greek worlds. |
Summary of Ἰκόνιον (G2430)
The Greek noun Ἰκόνιον (Ikónion) refers to the ancient city of Iconium, located in Asia Minor. This city is significant in the New Testament as a location where Paul and Barnabas preached, faced opposition, and continued to spread the gospel. Understanding Ἰκόνιον provides context to the challenges faced by early Christians in a diverse cultural and religious environment. The city is also notable in classical Greek and Roman writings, which helps frame its broader historical and cultural significance.
Did You Know?
- Iconium was a key city in the ancient region of Lycaonia, strategically located along trade routes that facilitated the spread of early Christianity.
- The city is mentioned several times in the Acts of the Apostles, indicating its importance in Paul’s missionary journeys.
- Iconium’s rich cultural heritage included a mix of Greek, Roman, and local Phrygian influences, making it a significant site for the encounter between early Christian and pagan cultures.
By exploring the word Ἰκόνιον, readers gain a deeper understanding of its significance in Biblical history and its broader impact on early Christian missionary efforts in the Roman Empire.
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