Introduction

Understanding the Greek word Καισάρεια (Kaisareia) is essential for biblical studies as it denotes a significant geographical and political location in the New Testament. Referring to several cities named after Caesar, particularly Caesarea Maritima and Caesarea Philippi, Καισάρεια holds importance for interpreting key biblical narratives. Its role as a center of Roman administration and early Christian activity makes it a word that bridges the ancient world’s political, cultural, and religious aspects.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Καισάρεια, transliterated as Kaisareia, pronounced [kay-sar-EI-ah].
• Etymology: Derived from the Latin name Caesar, referring to a location named in honor of the Roman emperors.
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, feminine; first declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Caesarea: A city named after Caesar, specifically denoting Caesarea Maritima in Judea.
• An important administrative and military center of the Roman Empire in the region.
• A key location in the spread of early Christianity, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles.

Similar Words: Ιερουσαλήμ (Ierousalēm) [ye-roo-sa-LEEM], which means “Jerusalem,” is another significant city in the New Testament. Unlike Καισάρεια, which is associated with Roman political power, Ιερουσαλήμ is more closely tied to Jewish religious and cultural identity.

Further Insights: Καισάρεια is a first-declension feminine noun in Greek. Its declension follows typical patterns for feminine nouns:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Highlights Καισάρεια as a significant city in Judea, serving as a Roman administrative center and the setting for pivotal events in Acts.
• Thayers: Describes Καισάρεια as the residence of Roman procurators and the site where Paul was imprisoned.
• Vines: Notes Καισάρεια as a geographical name referring to a city named after Caesar, with a specific focus on Caesarea Maritima.
• LSJ: Provides background on the term’s origin, connecting it to Roman influence and its significance in Jewish and early Christian history.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists Καισάρεια as a key location in the New Testament, frequently mentioned in Acts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 8:40: “But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea [Καισάρειαν].”
• Acts 10:1: “There was a certain man in Caesarea [Καισαρείᾳ] called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment.”
• Acts 23:23: “And he called for two centurions, saying, ‘Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea [Καισάρειαν] at the third hour of the night.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of Καισάρεια (G2542)

Καισάρεια (Kaisareia) is a word that denotes cities named after Caesar, with Caesarea Maritima being the most prominent in the New Testament. This city served as a Roman administrative and military center, influencing the spread of early Christianity. It was the site of key events, such as the conversion of Cornelius and Paul’s imprisonment, which underscores its importance in biblical narratives. Understanding the term Καισάρεια provides insights into the intersection of Roman political authority and early Christian history.

Did You Know?

• Caesarea Maritima, referenced as Καισάρεια, was built by Herod the Great and named in honor of Augustus Caesar.
• The city was a major port and trade hub in the Roman Empire, playing a significant role in early Christian missionary journeys.
• Καισάρεια is mentioned 17 times in the New Testament, making it a focal point for understanding the spread of Christianity in the Roman world.