Pamphyl'ia is a region of significant historical and biblical interest, located in the southern part of modern-day Turkey, along the Mediterranean coast. In the context of the New Testament, Pamphyl'ia is mentioned as part of the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul and his companions. The region was known for its diverse population, which included Greeks, Romans, and indigenous peoples, contributing to its cultural and religious plurality.

Geographical Context:
Pamphyl'ia was bordered by the regions of Lycia to the west and Cilicia to the east. Its coastal location made it an important area for trade and travel in the ancient world. The region's terrain included fertile plains and rugged mountains, which influenced its economic activities, primarily agriculture and trade.

Biblical References:
Pamphyl'ia is mentioned in the New Testament in the context of the early Christian missionary efforts. In Acts 13:13, Paul and his companions, including John Mark, traveled to Perga in Pamphyl'ia during their first missionary journey: "Paul and his companions sailed from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphyl'ia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem" . This passage highlights the strategic importance of Pamphyl'ia as a point of transit and mission work.

In Acts 2:10, Pamphyl'ia is also listed among the regions represented by the diverse crowd present in Jerusalem during the Feast of Pentecost: "Phrygia and Pamphyl'ia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome" . This inclusion underscores the widespread reach of the Jewish diaspora and the early spread of the Gospel message.

Historical and Cultural Significance:
Pamphyl'ia's history is marked by various conquests and influences, including those of the Hittites, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. The region's name, derived from the Greek words "pan" (all) and "phylē" (tribe), reflects its reputation as a melting pot of different peoples and cultures. This diversity is mirrored in the religious practices of the area, which included the worship of Greek and Roman deities alongside local cults.

Early Christianity:
The presence of early Christians in Pamphyl'ia is indicative of the region's openness to new ideas and movements. The missionary activities of Paul and his companions in Pamphyl'ia contributed to the spread of Christianity throughout Asia Minor. The challenges faced by early Christians in such a diverse and often pagan environment are reflective of the broader struggles of the early Church to establish itself in a world dominated by polytheistic beliefs.

Archaeological Insights:
Archaeological findings in Pamphyl'ia, including ruins of ancient cities like Perga and Aspendos, provide valuable insights into the region's historical and cultural context during the biblical era. These sites reveal the architectural and artistic achievements of the time, as well as the everyday life of its inhabitants.

Pamphyl'ia's role in the New Testament narrative, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles, highlights its importance as a crossroads of cultures and a fertile ground for the early Christian mission. The region's mention in the Bible serves as a testament to the far-reaching impact of the Gospel and the diverse backgrounds of those who embraced the Christian faith.Pamphyl'ia (5 Occurrences)

Acts 2:10
Phrygia also, and Pamphylia, Egypt, and the parts of Libya, that 'are' along Cyrene, and the strangers of Rome, both Jews and proselytes,
(See RSV)

Acts 13:13
And those about Paul having set sail from Paphos, came to Perga of Pamphylia, and John having departed from them, did turn back to Jerusalem,
(See RSV)

Acts 14:24
And having passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia,
(See RSV)

Acts 15:38
and Paul was not thinking it good to take him with them who withdrew from them from Pamphylia, and did not go with them to the work;
(See RSV)

Acts 27:5
and having sailed over the sea over-against Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myria of Lycia,
(See RSV)

Pamphyl'ia (5 Occurrences)
Pamphyl'ia. Pamphylia, Pamphyl'ia. Pan . Multi-Version Concordance
Pamphyl'ia (5 Occurrences). Acts 2:10 Phrygia also, and Pamphylia ...
/p/pamphyl'ia.htm - 7k

Pamphylia (6 Occurrences)

/p/pamphylia.htm - 12k

Pan (26 Occurrences)

/p/pan.htm - 20k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus