Brief Overview of πλατεῖα (Strong’s G4113: plateia)

Strong’s G4113: A broad or wide street, derived from πλατύς (platys), meaning “broad.” In ancient Greek cities, it referred to main streets or public squares where civic life centered. In New Testament usage, it often appears in contexts discussing public visibility and community gatherings.

U- Unveiling the Word

πλατεῖα represents more than just a physical street—it embodies the public sphere of ancient urban life. In the New Testament, Jesus uses it to contrast public displays of piety with genuine devotion, while in other passages it serves as a setting for community life and proclamation. The term carried cultural significance as the center of civic activity. Early church fathers used it to discuss the intersection of Christian witness with public life. Today, it helps us understand the relationship between faith and public expression.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πλατεῖα, plateia, /plah-TEE-ah/
• Detailed pronunciation: plah-TEE-ah (emphasis on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root: πλατ- (plat-) meaning “broad, wide”
• Suffix: -εῖα (-eia) feminine adjectival ending
• Originally the feminine form of πλατύς (platys), used substantively

D – Defining Meanings

• Broad street
• Public square
• Main thoroughfare

For compound words: Not a compound word, but represents a substantivized adjective

Translation Options:

• Broad street – Emphasizes the physical width and importance
• Public square – Highlights the communal gathering aspect
• Main street – Focuses on its central role in city life

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ῥύμη (rhymē) /HROO-may/ – narrow street or lane
  See G4505
• ἀγορά (agora) /ag-or-AH/ – marketplace or forum
  See G58

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

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

Examples:
Nominative singular: πλατεῖα
Genitive singular: πλατείας
Dative singular: πλατείᾳ
Accusative singular: πλατεῖαν

• Cross-references to adjective πλατύς

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its urban context. Thayer’s notes its development from adjective to noun. LSJ documents its use in city planning. Vine’s highlights its public nature. Strong’s connects it to civic gatherings. LEH provides Septuagint usage in city descriptions. Moulton and Milligan cite papyri showing its importance in urban administration.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by others.” Matthew 6:5

Additional References:
Matthew 12:19, Luke 10:10, Luke 13:26, Luke 14:21, Acts 5:15, Revelation 11:8, Revelation 21:21, Revelation 22:2

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

πλατεῖα reminds us that while public spaces can be venues for both genuine ministry and empty showmanship, Jesus calls us to authentic faith that transforms both private and public spheres. The gospel message moves from the broad streets to transform hearts, creating a new community that reflects God’s glory in both public and private life.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word influenced modern urban planning terminology through Latin “platea.”
2. Early Christian churches were often built along these main streets for visibility.
3. The term appears in Revelation’s description of the New Jerusalem, suggesting the eternal significance of community spaces.

Strong’s G4113: A broad street or public square in ancient cities, serving as the center of civic and social life. In New Testament usage, it appears in contexts of public religious expression, community interaction, and prophetic imagery of both earthly and heavenly cities.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: streets, urban life, public space, city planning, religious practice, Matthew, Luke, Revelation, biblical Greek, community life, public witness, New Jerusalem​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​