Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the scriptures accurately and comprehending the cultural and historical context of ancient texts. The Greek word Ἱεράπολις (Hierapolis) is particularly significant as it refers to an ancient city mentioned in the New Testament. This city is located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) and is known for its religious significance and its mention alongside Laodicea and Colossae in the New Testament. Exploring this word provides insights into early Christian geography and the socio-religious environment of the time.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἱεράπολις, transliterated as Hierapolis [hee-eh-RAH-poh-lis].
- Etymology: Derived from the Greek words ἱερός (hieros), meaning “sacred” or “holy,” and πόλις (polis), meaning “city.” Thus, Ἱεράπολις means “holy city.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun, feminine.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Hierapolis: A city in Phrygia, Asia Minor, known for its hot springs and its mention in the New Testament.
Similar Words: Ἱεράπολις is closely related to other compound words containing πόλις (polis), which also refer to cities. For example, Μεγαλόπολις (Megalopolis), meaning “great city,” or Νεκρόπολις (Necropolis), meaning “city of the dead.” Unlike Ἱεράπολις, which emphasizes a sacred connotation, these terms focus on size or function.
Further Insights: Ἱεράπολις is a feminine noun and follows the standard third declension pattern in Ancient Greek. Below is the declension table:
| Case / Number | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | ἡ Ἱεράπολις |
| Genitive | τῆς Ἱεραπόλεως |
| Dative | τῇ Ἱεραπόλει |
| Accusative | τὴν Ἱεράπολιν |
| Vocative | Ἱεράπολις |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The lexicon defines Ἱεράπολις as a city in Phrygia, mentioning its location near Laodicea and Colossae and highlighting its significance in early Christian texts. It was noted for its hot springs and religious character.
Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon describes Ἱεράπολις as “the holy city,” an ancient city of Phrygia, emphasizing its mention in Colossians 4:13 as part of the early Christian network of cities.
Vines: Vines Expository Dictionary refers to Ἱεράπολις as a significant urban center in the Roman province of Asia, noting its religious and cultural importance and its connection with early Christian communities.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon focuses on the meaning of the name “sacred city,” indicating its likely religious origins and its role in ancient geography, specifically in Phrygia.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines Ἱεράπολις (G2404) as “sacred city” and mentions its appearance in Colossians 4:13, providing its geographical and cultural context within the New Testament.
Related Scripture References
- Colossians 4:13: “For I testify for him that he has a deep concern for you and for those who are in Laodicea and Hierapolis [Ἱεράπολις].”
Classical Usage
Ἱεράπολις appears primarily in Biblical and historical writings, with less frequent mention in classical Greek literature. Below are examples from historical references:
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Strabo | Geography | “Hierapolis (Ἱεράπολις) in Phrygia was known for its hot springs and its temples.” |
| Pliny the Elder | Natural History | “Hierapolis (Ἱεράπολις) is famous for its medicinal waters and its shrine to the Mother Goddess.” |
| Eusebius | Ecclesiastical History | “The church of Hierapolis (Ἱεράπολις) had a strong community presence among early Christians.” |
Summary of Ἱεράπολις (G2404)
The Greek word Ἱεράπολις (Hierapolis) refers to an ancient city in Phrygia, Asia Minor, noted for its sacred nature and hot springs. Its mention in the New Testament, alongside Laodicea and Colossae, highlights its importance in the early Christian world as part of the broader socio-religious landscape. The term itself, meaning “sacred city,” reflects the city’s religious heritage and its cultural significance in antiquity.
Did You Know?
- Did You Know? Hierapolis was known for its hot springs, which were believed to have healing properties, drawing people from all over the ancient world.
- Did You Know? The Apostle Philip is said to have been martyred in Hierapolis, which became a center for early Christian pilgrimage.
- Did You Know? Hierapolis, along with Laodicea and Colossae, formed a triangle of early Christian communities in Phrygia, all mentioned in the New Testament.
This comprehensive overview of Ἱεράπολις (Hierapolis) offers a detailed understanding of its significance in Biblical texts and ancient geography, providing valuable context for interpreting the New Testament and understanding the cultural and religious environment of early Christian communities.
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