G3533

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word Νικόπολις (Nikópolis), which appears in Titus 3:12, is a significant place name that offers deeper insights into both New Testament geography and the historical context of the early church. Understanding such terms helps in situating biblical events within the broader Greco-Roman world, revealing the dynamics of early Christian mission work, as the cities mentioned were often centers of political and cultural life. Nikópolis is particularly significant as it relates to Paul’s missionary activity and his strategic choice of places to spread the gospel.

In the New Testament, Paul instructs Titus to meet him in Nikópolis, underscoring its role as a meeting point for Paul’s missionary endeavors. This city, founded by Roman Emperor Augustus, carries the connotation of victory, reflecting the political power and Roman influence of the time.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: Νικόπολις (Nikópolis), pronounced nee-KO-po-lis.

Etymology: Nikópolis is a compound word made up of νίκη (nikē), meaning “victory” or “conquest,” and πόλις (polis), meaning “city.” Thus, the term translates directly to “City of Victory.” The name was often given to cities to commemorate a significant military victory, and in this case, it was named by Augustus after his naval victory at Actium in 31 BCE.

Part of Speech: Proper noun, feminine. As a place name, it refers to a specific city, which, in the context of Titus 3:12, is where Paul planned to spend the winter.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Place Name: Nikópolis refers to a historical city in Epirus, Greece, founded by Augustus to celebrate his victory at the Battle of Actium. It became an important urban center in the Roman Empire.

2. Symbolic Meaning: The name Nikópolis itself, meaning “City of Victory,” carries connotations of triumph and imperial strength, symbolizing the Roman Empire’s dominance. In the biblical context, this victory could also be seen as representative of Paul’s triumph in his missionary efforts.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Νικάω (Nikáō) [pronunciation: nee-KAH-oh]: This verb means “to conquer” or “to overcome,” sharing the root νίκη with Nikópolis. While Nikáō is an action, Nikópolis represents a place that celebrates victory.

2. Πόλις (Polis) [pronunciation: POH-lis]: This noun means “city” and is the second part of Nikópolis. It refers to a structured urban environment or center of civilization, often associated with governance and community life in Greek culture.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:

• Nominative Singular: Νικόπολις (Nikópolis)

• Genitive Singular: Νικοπόλεως (Nikopóleōs)

• Dative Singular: Νικοπόλει (Nikopólei)

• Accusative Singular: Νικόπολιν (Nikópolin)

Declension:

Nikópolis follows the third declension pattern for feminine nouns.

For more on Greek noun declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

In various lexicons, Nikópolis is understood as a key geographic location with political and symbolic importance. It appears as a central meeting point in Paul’s missionary travels, mentioned specifically in Titus 3:12. In the New Testament context, it represents a Roman city that had become a hub of culture, trade, and governance, making it a strategic location for early Christian mission work.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Titus 3:12: “As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis [Νικόπολις], because I have decided to winter there.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Strabo Geographica “Nicopolis [Νικόπολις], the city built by Augustus after his victory at Actium, stands as a reminder of his triumph.”

Plutarch Life of Augustus “The city of Nicopolis [Νικόπολις] was founded to celebrate the great naval victory of Augustus.”

Pausanias Description of Greece “Nicopolis [Νικόπολις], the City of Victory, is an impressive reminder of Augustus’s military genius.”

Noteworthy Summary

Nikópolis, meaning “City of Victory,” is a prominent city in Epirus, Greece, established by Emperor Augustus following his triumph at the Battle of Actium. Mentioned in Titus 3:12, Paul planned to winter there, likely because of its strategic importance. This city serves as a symbolic representation of victory, both politically in Roman history and spiritually in the context of the early church’s mission. Its significance in the New Testament highlights Paul’s journey and the growing influence of Christianity across the Roman Empire.

Did You Know?

1. Nikópolis was one of many cities across the Roman Empire named in honor of military victories, a tradition that reinforced the power and legacy of Roman leaders.

2. The ruins of ancient Nikópolis still exist in modern-day Greece and are a significant archaeological site, offering insight into Roman urban planning.

3. Paul’s mention of Nikópolis in Titus is one of the few geographical references in the New Testament that ties directly to an imperial foundation, emphasizing the intersection of Christian mission and Roman politics.