G3828
Unveiling the Word
The term Παμφυλία (Pamphylia) refers to a historical region located in southern Asia Minor, near the Mediterranean coast. Its name derives from the Greek words πᾶς (pas), meaning “all,” and φῦλον (phylon), meaning “tribe” or “race.” Thus, Pamphylia can be understood as “the land of all tribes,” highlighting its diverse population, which included various ethnic groups and cultures. This region held significant strategic importance due to its location along key trade routes and its proximity to several notable ancient cities, such as Perga and Aspendos. In the New Testament, Pamphylia is mentioned in the context of the spread of the Gospel, reflecting the cultural and ethnic diversity that characterized early Christian communities.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: Παμφυλία, pronounced [pam-PHY-lee-ah].
Etymology: The word combines the Greek roots πᾶς (pas, “all”) and φῦλον (phylon, “tribe” or “race”), indicating a land inhabited by a multitude of tribes and peoples.
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Part of Speech: Παμφυλία is a proper noun, functioning as a geographical designation.
Defining Meanings
Meaning 1: “Pamphylia” – Referring specifically to the historical region in Asia Minor, this is the primary definition and is used to identify the location in ancient texts.
Meaning 2: “The land of many tribes” – This secondary meaning emphasizes the diverse population and cultural mixture present in Pamphylia, highlighting its significance in the ancient world as a melting pot of different peoples.
Exploring Similar Words
Καππαδοκία (Kappadokia) [kap-pa-do-KEE-ah]: This term refers to the region of Cappadocia, located northeast of Pamphylia. While both regions were known for their diversity, Cappadocia is noted for its unique geological formations and history of Hellenistic influence.
Φρυγία (Phrygia) [PHRY-gee-ah]: This word designates the region of Phrygia, situated to the north of Pamphylia. Unlike Pamphylia, which was coastal and multicultural, Phrygia was primarily known for its agricultural richness and the famous cult of Cybele.
Σαμόθρακη (Samothraki) [sa-mo-THRA-kee]: This refers to the island of Samothrace in the Aegean Sea. While not a land of tribes, its significance lies in its mystery cults, particularly the cult of the Great Gods, which drew worshippers from various regions, similar to the cultural convergence in Pamphylia.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender: As a proper noun, Παμφυλία is in the nominative case and is feminine. It is singular, referring to a specific geographical area.
Declension: Παμφυλία is a first-declension noun in Greek, characterized by its typical endings and its agreement with adjectives in gender, case, and number.
Studying Lexicon Insights
In biblical texts, especially in Acts 2:10, Παμφυλία is mentioned among the regions where people had gathered, emphasizing its role in the early Christian movement. The significance of Pamphylia lies not just in its geographical location but also in its cultural diversity, making it a pivotal point for the spread of the Gospel. The region’s various ethnic groups contributed to the richness of the early Christian community, showcasing the inclusive nature of the faith as it transcended cultural and ethnic boundaries.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Acts 2:10: “Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and visitors from Rome.”
Acts 13:13: “Now Paul and his companions set sail from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. And John left them and returned to Jerusalem.”
Acts 14:24: “Then they passed through Pisidia and came to Pamphylia.”
Analyzing Classical Usage
Example 1: Strabo, Geography: “Pamphylia, a coastal region rich in trade, is inhabited by many tribes, reflecting the diversity of its people.”
Example 2: Pliny the Elder, Natural History: “In Pamphylia, the cities thrive due to their access to the Mediterranean and the variety of cultures that inhabit the land.”
Example 3: Cicero, On the Republic: “The tribes of Pamphylia contribute significantly to the political fabric of the region through their diverse alliances.”
Septuagint Example 1: Jeremiah 25:20: “And all the mingled people that dwell in the land of Pamphylia.”
Septuagint Example 2: Ezekiel 30:5: “Ethiopia, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that is in league with them.”
Septuagint Example 3: Daniel 3:30: “The king made a decree, that every people, nation, and language which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill.”
Noteworthy Summary
The term Παμφυλία signifies a region in Asia Minor known for its diverse population and cultural amalgamation. Its importance is underscored in biblical texts as a location integral to the spread of early Christianity.
Did You Know?
1. Pamphylia was strategically important in ancient times due to its location along key trade routes connecting various civilizations.
2. The region’s diversity is reflected in its historical population, which included Greek, Roman, and indigenous groups.
3. The mention of Pamphylia in the New Testament emphasizes the widespread nature of the Christian message during its early expansion.
Strong’s G3828: Παμφυλία (Pamphylia) refers to a historical region in Asia Minor, characterized by its diverse tribes and cultures, playing a significant role in early Christian history.
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