Ἰκόνιον (Ikonion)
Ikonion
Iconium
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun Ikonion refers to Iconium, an ancient city in Asia Minor that served as the capital of Lycaonia within the Roman province of Galatia. Modern scholarship identifies this location with present-day Konya. The name itself likely derives from a root meaning "little image," though the specific historical context of that etymology remains obscure.
Scripture records Iconium primarily in the Acts of the Apostles, where it features prominently in Paul’s first missionary journey. The narrative describes how Paul and Barnabas preached there with such success that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed (Acts 14:1). However, this enthusiasm also sparked intense opposition from unbelieving Jews, leading to a plot to mistreat them (Acts 14:5). The duo eventually fled the city after an attempt by both Gentiles and Jews to stone them (Acts 14:6, 19).
Paul later reflects on his experiences in Iconium when writing to Timothy. He recalls how he endured persecution in that very city, using it as a concrete example of the suffering that accompanies faithful witness (2 Timothy 3:11). This brief mention connects the early church’s expansion with the personal costs borne by its leaders.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Iconium stands as a reminder that faithful witness often invites both belief and opposition. When Paul and Barnabas arrived, many responded with hope, yet others plotted harm. This mix of reception and resistance shows that sharing the gospel rarely follows a predictable path.
Your own journey may include similar contrasts. Some will welcome your words; others may resist or even oppose them. The example of Iconium encourages you to remain steady in your convictions, trusting that God’s work continues regardless of human reaction. Persecution does not signal failure but rather participation in the costly path of discipleship.
Ultimately, this city highlights the reality of spiritual conflict and divine deliverance. You are not alone when facing difficulty. The same Lord who rescued Paul from danger remains present to sustain you through every trial.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Iconium4×
- Iconium.1×
- Iconium,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἰκονίῳ2×
- Ἰκόνιον.1×
- Ἰκόνιον1×
- Ἰκονίῳ,1×
- Ἰκονίου1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 14:1
In Iconium, they entered together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of Jews and of Greeks believed.
This verse shows Iconium as a place where the gospel initially brought hope and belief across cultural boundaries.
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Acts 14:19
But some Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there, and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead.
The stoning of Paul demonstrates the severe personal cost of faithful witness in this specific location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Iconium refer to in the Bible?
Why is Iconium significant for understanding persecution?
How did people in Iconium respond to Paul?
Every Occurrence (6 verses across 2 books)
Acts 5 verses
But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came to Iconium.
Acts 14:1In Iconium, they entered together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of Jews and…
Acts 14:19But some Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there, and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged…
Acts 14:21When they had preached the Good News to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and…
Acts 16:2The brothers who were at Lystra and Iconium gave a good testimony about him.