Brief Overview of Σιδών (Strong’s G4605: Sidōn)
Strong’s G4605: An ancient Phoenician city, historically known for commerce and idolatry. In New Testament usage, it often appears paired with Tyre, representing Gentile territories that witnessed Jesus’ ministry and symbolizing God’s grace extending beyond Israel’s borders.
U- Unveiling the Word
Σιδών represents both a literal city and a symbol of Gentile inclusion in God’s plan. First appearing in Matthew 11:21, it serves as an example of a pagan city that might have responded better to Jesus’ ministry than some Jewish cities. The ancient commercial center became a symbol in early church writings of God’s mission to the Gentiles. Today, it reminds us that God’s salvation extends to all peoples and that opportunity brings responsibility.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: Σιδών, Sidōn, see-DOHN
- Detailed pronunciation: stress on second syllable: ‘see’ as in see, ‘DOHN’ as in tone
- Part of Speech: Proper Noun
Etymology:
- From Phoenician 𐤑𐤃𐤍 (ṣdn)
- Ancient name possibly meaning “fishing” or “fishery”
- No Greek etymological components as it is a borrowed name
D – Defining Meanings
- Ancient Phoenician city
- Major Mediterranean port
- Center of commerce
For compound words:
Not applicable as this is a proper noun
Translation Options:
- “Sidon” – Standard English translation
- “Zidon” – Alternate biblical form
- “Saida” – Modern name
E – Exploring Similar Words
- Τύρος (Turos, TOO-ros) – Tyre See G5184
- Φοινίκη (Phoinikē, foy-NEE-kay) – Phoenicia See G5403
- Σιδώνιος (Sidōnios, see-DO-nee-os) – Sidonian See G4606
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Noun Features:
- Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
- Number: Singular only
- Gender: Feminine
- Declension: 3rd
As a place name, it often appears indeclinable in New Testament usage.
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its commercial importance. Thayer’s notes its pagan associations. LSJ documents its historical significance. Vine’s highlights its role in Jesus’ ministry. Strong’s connects it to ancient Phoenician culture. Moulton-Milligan shows its prominence in commercial documents.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.” Matthew 11:21
Additional References:
Matthew 15:21, Mark 3:8, Mark 7:24, Luke 4:26, Luke 6:17, Acts 27:3
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Homer: Odyssey | “The merchants came from Sidon rich in bronze.” |
| Herodotus: Histories | “Sidon was the oldest city of Phoenicia.” |
| Strabo: Geography | “Sidon excelled in the production of glass.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
Σιδών reminds us that God’s grace extends beyond traditional boundaries. Its appearance in Jesus’ ministry and teachings demonstrates that the gospel message is for all peoples. This ancient city points to Christ’s mission to seek and save the lost, regardless of their cultural or religious background.
D – Did You Know?
- Sidon was famous for purple dye production from murex shells.
- The city appears in both Egyptian and Mesopotamian ancient records.
- Early Christian communities flourished in Sidon by the second century.
Strong’s G4605: An ancient Phoenician city, historically known for commerce and idolatry. In New Testament usage, it often appears paired with Tyre, representing Gentile territories that witnessed Jesus’ ministry and symbolizing God’s grace extending beyond Israel’s borders.
Part of speech: Proper Noun
Tags: Sidon, ancient cities, Phoenicia, Gentile territories, Jesus’ ministry, biblical places, Mediterranean ports, commerce, missions, Gentile inclusion, divine judgment, gospel expansion
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations and keyword occurrences in their Bible translation of choice. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
