Καπερναούμ (Kapernaoum)
Kapernaoum
Capernaum
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 16 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Capernaum was a bustling town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, serving as a central hub for Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. The name likely means "village of Nahum" or "comfort," reflecting its status as a thriving community where the Gospels record many of his teachings and miracles.
Found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, this location appears frequently as the base from which Jesus traveled. It was here that he called disciples like Peter and Andrew, healed servants, and challenged religious leaders, making it one of the most significant settings in the New Testament narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Capernaum was more than just a stop on Jesus’ travel map; it became His home base for much of His public ministry. By choosing this busy fishing town on the Sea of Galilee, He showed that God meets people in their everyday workplaces and neighborhoods. It was here that ordinary fishermen like Peter and Andrew left their nets to follow Him, proving that no one is too far from grace or too occupied with daily life to be called.
Yet this place also carries a sobering warning. Jesus pronounced judgment on Capernaum because, despite witnessing many miracles, its people did not truly repent or believe. This reminds us that seeing God’s power is not enough; we must respond with faith and obedience. It invites us to examine our own hearts: are we merely observing, or are we fully surrendering to who Jesus is?
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 16 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Capernaum8×
- Capernaum.5×
- Capernaum,2×
- Capernaum;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Καφαρναοὺμ8×
- Καφαρναούμ.5×
- Καφαρναούμ,2×
- Καφαρναούμ·1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 4:13
Leaving Nazareth, he came and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,
This verse marks the shift of Jesus' ministry center from Nazareth to Capernaum, establishing it as the hub for His Galilean work.
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Mark 1:21
They went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath day he entered into the synagogue and taught.
It highlights Capernaum as a place where Jesus taught with authority in the synagogue, drawing immediate attention to His message.
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Matthew 11:23
You, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, you will go down to Hades. For if the mighty works had been done in Sodom which were done in you, it would have remained until today.
Here Jesus uses Capernaum as a stark example of how greater privilege brings greater responsibility, warning that unbelief leads to judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Capernaum mean?
Why is Capernaum important in the Gospels?
What is the warning given to Capernaum in Matthew 11?
Every Occurrence (16 verses across 4 books)
Matthew 4 verses
Leaving Nazareth, he came and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,
Matthew 8:5When he came into Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking him for help,
Matthew 11:23You, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, you will go down to Hades. For if the mighty works had been done in Sodom…
Matthew 17:24When they had come to Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma coins came to Peter, and said, “Doesn’t your teacher…