Strong’s G4544: An island in the eastern Aegean Sea, meaning “height” or “elevation.” Significant in Paul’s third missionary journey as a stopping point between Chios and Miletus, representing the continued expansion of the gospel through major Mediterranean centers.

U- Unveiling the Word

The term Σάμος appears in Acts 20:15 as part of Paul’s return journey to Jerusalem. This culturally significant island, known for its height and strategic location, served as an important waypoint in spreading the gospel. Though historically associated with the worship of Hera, it became part of the Christian narrative as Paul’s ministry reached key Mediterranean locations. Early church writers saw symbolic importance in Christianity reaching such prominent cultural centers. Today, Σάμος reminds us how God uses significant geographical locations to advance His kingdom purposes.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σάμος, Samos, /sam’-os/
• Pronunciation Guide: “sam” (like ‘sam’), “os” (like ‘moss’)
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

• From Proto-Indo-European *samā (height)
• Root meaning: elevation or height
• No prefixes or suffixes
• Ancient Mediterranean place name

D – Defining Meanings

• Island of Samos
• Elevated place
• Eastern Aegean island
• Strategic waypoint

For compound words:
Not a compound word – primitive geographical name

Translation Options:

• “Samos” – traditional transliteration
• “Height Island” – meaning-based translation
• “Samos Isle” – descriptive translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Χίος (Chios) /khee’-os/ – neighboring island See G5508 – related location
• Μίλητος (Milētos) /mil’-ay-tos/ – Miletus See G3399 – next destination
• νῆσος (nēsos) /nay’-sos/ – island See G3520 – general term

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Morphological features as a proper noun:

• Indeclinable
• No case changes
• No number changes
• No gender variations

The geographical name remains unchanged in Greek text.

Cross-references:

• Related adjective: Σάμιος (Samian)
• Part of compound: Σαμοθρᾴκη (Samothrace)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its geographical significance. Thayer’s notes its cultural importance. LSJ provides extensive historical background. Vine’s highlights its role in Acts. Strong’s connects to its etymological meaning. LEH documents its Hellenistic usage. Moulton and Milligan show its prominence in travel accounts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

Sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day following we came to Miletus (Acts 20:15)

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

The word Σάμος represents another strategic point in the expansion of King Jesus’s kingdom. As Paul’s ministry reached this prominent cultural center, it demonstrated how the gospel transforms even places known for pagan worship. This proclaims the good news that Christ’s message can penetrate and transform any cultural stronghold.

D – Did You Know?

1. Samos was famous as the birthplace of Pythagoras and other Greek philosophers.
2. The island contained one of the largest temples to Hera in the ancient world.
3. Early Christian communities were established there following Paul’s visit.

Strong’s G4544: An island in the eastern Aegean Sea, meaning “height” or “elevation.” Significant in Paul’s third missionary journey as a stopping point between Chios and Miletus, representing the continued expansion of the gospel through major Mediterranean centers.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: Samos, Paul’s journeys, Acts, missionary travel, geographical locations, Mediterranean, islands, sea routes, gospel expansion, cultural centers​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​