Brief Overview of ἀγορά (Strong’s G58: Agora)

ἀγορά (Agora):
The Greek word “ἀγορά” (agorá) primarily translates to “marketplace” or “forum.” It denotes a public space used for various activities, including commerce, public speaking, and social interaction. The term can also imply a broader sense of a gathering place or meeting area in ancient Greek cities.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγορά (Agora):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G58), “ἀγορά” means “marketplace” or “forum.” It refers to a public space where commercial transactions, civic gatherings, and public speeches occurred. The term captures the essence of an open space used for various public and economic activities. For example, in the New Testament, it is used to describe locations where Jesus and the apostles interacted with the public (e.g., Acts 17:17).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἀγορά” as “marketplace” or “assembly.” It notes that the term represents a central public area in ancient Greek cities where people would gather for commercial, legal, and social purposes. Thayer’s emphasizes the importance of the agora as a key location for public discourse and commerce. The Lexicon also mentions its use in Acts 17:17, where Paul reasoned in the marketplace daily.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἀγορά” as “marketplace” or “public square.” Vine’s explains that this term refers to the central place in a city where people would meet for various activities, including trade, legal proceedings, and public speeches. The agora was crucial for social and commercial interactions, as seen in passages like Acts 17:17, where Paul engages with the people in the marketplace.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “ἀγορά” as a term meaning “marketplace” or “public place.” It defines the term as describing a central area in ancient cities where public and economic activities took place. The Lexicon highlights its role as a gathering spot for people to conduct transactions, legal matters, and social interactions. This usage is illustrated in Acts 17:17, where the agora serves as a venue for Paul’s public discussions.

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan defines “ἀγορά” as “marketplace” or “public square.” The vocabulary notes that the term refers to the central area of a city used for commercial and social purposes. It underscores the significance of the agora as a place for public meetings, trade, and civic activities. The vocabulary also references Acts 17:17, where the agora is depicted as a key location for Paul’s public engagements.

Summary:
“ἀγορά” (agorá) translates to “marketplace” or “forum,” referring to a central public space in ancient Greek cities used for commerce, public gatherings, and social interactions. According to Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, the term signifies a crucial location for public life and economic activities. The agora was essential for conducting trade, legal matters, and public discourse, as exemplified in Acts 17:17, where Paul engages with the people in this prominent space.