Brief Overview of περιοχή (Strong’s G4042: perioche)

Strong’s G4042: A compound noun combining περί (around) and ἔχω (to hold), meaning “a contained passage, section, or content.” Used specifically in Acts to describe the particular passage of Scripture being read by the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing the careful study of specific biblical texts.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περιοχή represents contained or bounded content, particularly of written material. As a compound word, it combines the encompassing aspect of περί with the holding concept of ἔχω, creating a picture of a defined section or passage. In the New Testament, it appears uniquely in Acts, describing the specific Isaiah passage the Ethiopian eunuch was reading. The word carries significant implications about careful Scripture reading and interpretation. Early church writers used it to discuss both specific biblical passages and their proper interpretation. Today, it reminds us of the importance of studying Scripture in its proper context.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περιοχή, perioche, [peh-ree-o-KHAY]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-ree-o-KHAY (stress on last syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• περί (peri-): prefix meaning “around”
• ἔχω (echo): root verb meaning “to hold”
• -ή (-e): feminine noun ending
• Combined meaning: that which is contained

D – Defining Meanings

• A passage of text
• A contained section
• A bounded content

For compound words: The prefix περί adds “around” to ἔχω “to hold,” creating the concept of bounded content

Translation Options:

1. Passage – Common translation
2. Section – Technical equivalent
3. Content – General meaning

E – Exploring Similar Words

• τόπος [topos, TO-pos] – place, passage
• χωρίον [chorion, kho-REE-on] – specific place
• ἀποκοπή [apokope, a-po-ko-PAY] – section cut off

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Nominal Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First declension

Examples:
Nominative: περιοχή
Genitive: περιοχῆς
Dative: περιοχῇ

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its technical use for passages. Thayer’s notes its literary context. LSJ provides examples from scroll divisions. Vine’s connects it to Scripture reading. Strong’s emphasizes containment. Moulton and Milligan document its use in literary contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Now the [passage] of Scripture which he was reading was this: ‘He was led as a sheep to slaughter.'” (Acts 8:32)

Additional References:
None

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περιοχή powerfully illustrates how God’s word comes to us in specific, understandable portions. The Ethiopian eunuch’s encounter shows how the good news of King Jesus can be found in focused study of Scripture, guided by the Holy Spirit’s illumination.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used technically in ancient scroll markings
2. Applied in literary criticism for text divisions
3. Influenced early Christian Scripture reading practices

Strong’s G4042: Compound noun describing a contained passage or section of text. Used specifically for Scripture reading in Acts, emphasizing careful attention to biblical texts in their proper context.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: #Scripture #Reading #Passage #Text #BiblicalGreek #CompoundWords #Acts #Interpretation #Study #Context​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​