Topical Bible: Trogyllium: Visited by Paul

◄ Trogyllium: Visited by Paul ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Trogyllium is a location mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Acts. It is a promontory on the western coast of Asia Minor, near the island of Samos. This site holds significance due to its mention in the Apostle Paul's third missionary journey.

Biblical Reference:

The only direct biblical reference to Trogyllium is found in Acts 20:15. The passage describes part of Paul's journey as he travels by sea:

"We sailed from there, and on the following day we arrived off Chios. The next day we crossed over to Samos, and on the following day we came to Miletus." (Acts 20:15)

While Trogyllium is not explicitly named in the Berean Standard Bible, it is traditionally understood to be the location where Paul and his companions anchored for a night during their voyage from Chios to Miletus. Some manuscripts include Trogyllium in this verse, indicating its historical recognition as a stopover point.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Trogyllium is located on the mainland opposite the island of Samos, near the modern-day town of Kuşadası in Turkey. The promontory forms part of the Mycale mountain range, which extends into the Aegean Sea. In ancient times, this area was strategically significant due to its proximity to key maritime routes and its natural harbor, which provided a safe anchorage for ships.

The region around Trogyllium was known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty. It was part of the Roman province of Asia, a region that played a crucial role in the spread of early Christianity. The Apostle Paul's travels through this area highlight the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities and the importance of maritime travel in the dissemination of the Gospel.

Paul's Missionary Journey:

During his third missionary journey, Paul was determined to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost, as noted in Acts 20:16. His stop at Trogyllium was part of a carefully planned itinerary that allowed him to visit and encourage the churches he had established while maintaining his schedule. This journey reflects Paul's dedication to his mission and his strategic approach to ministry.

The brief mention of Trogyllium in the biblical narrative underscores the logistical challenges faced by Paul and his companions. It also illustrates the Apostle's commitment to fostering relationships with the early Christian communities scattered across the Roman Empire.

Significance in Early Christianity:

While Trogyllium itself is not a major center of early Christian activity, its mention in the context of Paul's travels highlights the broader network of locations that were integral to the spread of Christianity. The Apostle's journey through this region exemplifies the dynamic and expansive nature of the early Church, as well as the reliance on established trade and travel routes to facilitate the movement of people and ideas.

In summary, Trogyllium serves as a geographical marker in the narrative of Paul's missionary endeavors, providing insight into the practical aspects of his travels and the historical context of the early Christian mission.

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Acts 20:15
And we sailed there, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.
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