Gospel Journey: Συράκουσαι (Strong’s G4946: Syrakousai) Marks Mediterranean Mission

Strong’s G4946: A place name referring to Syracuse, the principal city of Sicily. Featured in Acts during Paul’s journey to Rome, this significant Mediterranean port city represents the gospel’s advance through major cultural centers.

U- Unveiling the Word

Συράκουσαι represents a crucial nexus in the spread of the gospel. As the principal city of Sicily, Syracuse was a major cultural and commercial center where three continents’ trade routes intersected. In Acts, it marks a significant stop on Paul’s journey to Rome, symbolizing the gospel’s progression through strategic Mediterranean cities. The early church recognized Syracuse’s importance as a gateway for Christian expansion. Today, it reminds us how God uses significant cultural centers to advance His kingdom.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Συράκουσαι, Syrakousai, see-rah-KOO-sai
• Pronunciation Guide: ‘see’ as in ‘see’, ‘rah’ as in ‘raw’, ‘koo’ as in ‘cool’, ‘sai’ as in ‘sigh’
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun (plural form)

Etymology:

• Derived from ancient Phoenician/Greek origins
• Possible connection to nearby marsh “Syraco”
• The plural form indicates multiple districts or settlements that merged
• Name originally referred to the island of Ortygia
• Later expanded to include mainland settlements

D – Defining Meanings

• Syracuse (city name)
• Capital of Sicily
• Major Mediterranean port
• Cultural center
• Strategic maritime hub

For compound words:
Not a compound word, but a place name with possible pre-Greek origins

Translation Options:

1. “Syracuse” – Standard English rendering
2. “Siracusa” – Modern Italian form
3. “Syracusae” – Latin form

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Ῥώμη (Rhōmē, ROH-may) – Rome, the imperial capital – See G4516
• Κόρινθος (Korinthos, KOR-in-thos) – Corinth, another major port – See G2882
• Ἀλεξάνδρεια (Alexandria, al-ex-AN-dria) – Alexandria, Egyptian port – See G401

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a proper noun (plural form), Συράκουσαι exhibits these features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Plural only (pluralia tantum)
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First

Examples in cases:

• Nominative plural: Συράκουσαι
• Genitive plural: Συρακουσῶν
• Dative plural: Συρακούσαις
• Accusative plural: Συρακούσας

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes Syracuse’s significance as a major Mediterranean port. Thayer’s notes its strategic location on Paul’s journey. LSJ documents extensive classical references. Vine’s connects it to missionary expansion. Strong’s highlights its importance in maritime trade. LEH notes its cultural prominence. Moulton and Milligan find references in commercial papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
And landing at [Συράκουσαι] Syracuse, we tarried there three days. Acts 28:12

Additional References:
None – This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Συράκουσαι represents God’s strategic use of major cultural centers in spreading the gospel. Paul’s three-day stay there shows how the Messiah’s message advanced through key Mediterranean hubs. This reminds us that God often works through significant cultural crossroads to expand His kingdom.

D – Did You Know?

1. Syracuse was one of the most powerful Greek cities, rivaling Athens
2. Early Christian tradition holds that Peter sent missionaries to Syracuse
3. The city had one of the largest theaters in the ancient world

Strong’s G4946: A place name referring to Syracuse, the principal city of Sicily. Featured in Acts during Paul’s journey to Rome, this significant Mediterranean port city represents the gospel’s advance through major cultural centers.

Part of speech: Proper Noun (plural form)

Tags: Syracuse, Paul’s journey, Sicily, Mediterranean, missions, ports, cultural centers, Acts, travel, maritime​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​