GospelMount
Search Topics Scripture Prayer Resources Ebooks About Support the mission Saved articles

Κυρήνη (Kurēnē)

Kurēnē

Cyrene

G2957 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun Kyrenē refers to Cyrene, a prominent city located in northern Africa along the Mediterranean coast. Ancient sources describe it as a flourishing center in the region known as Libya or Pentapolis, situated roughly ten miles inland from the sea. Its name carries the evocative meaning of "supremacy of the bridle," though its historical significance lies more in its status as a major hub of commerce and culture than in its etymology.

What makes this place notable in Scripture is its diverse population. Historical records indicate that many Jews lived there, having been brought to the city by Ptolemy I and granted citizenship rights. This established community explains why Cyrenians appear among the pilgrims in Jerusalem during the Pentecost event described in Acts 2:10, representing the far reach of the early Christian message beyond the borders of Judea.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Cyrene stands as a reminder that the gospel has always crossed borders. Located in North Africa, this city was a hub of commerce and culture, home to a diverse population including many Jews who had settled there centuries earlier. Its presence in Scripture shows that God’s message is not confined to one region or ethnicity but reaches into every corner of the world.

When we read about Cyrenians in Acts 2:10, we see people from afar gathering to hear the good news. This reminds us that faith travels beyond familiar places and speaks to those who may feel distant from the heart of biblical history. It invites us to consider how God uses unexpected connections to bring people together.

The story of Cyrene encourages us to look outward with hope. Just as this city played a role in spreading the early Christian message, so too can our lives become bridges for others to encounter Christ. May we trust that God is at work wherever we are called to go.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Cyrene1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • Κυρήνην1×

Key Verses

  • Acts 2:10
    Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, the parts of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes,

    This verse highlights Cyrene's inclusion among those present at Pentecost, showing how the gospel reached diverse groups far from Judea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Cyrene mean in the Bible?

Cyrene refers to a city in North Africa mentioned in Acts 2:10. It was known for its diverse population, including many Jews who had settled there earlier. Its mention underscores the global reach of the early Christian message.

Why is Cyrene significant in Acts 2?

Cyrene appears in Acts 2:10 as part of the list of places represented at Pentecost. This shows that people from distant regions, like North Africa, were present when the Holy Spirit came and the gospel began to spread.

How does Cyrene relate to other cities in the Bible?

Cyrene is connected to Libya (G0459), the region where it was situated. While not directly linked to other biblical cities, its inclusion in Acts highlights the widespread nature of the early church's mission.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Acts 1 verse
Acts 2:10

Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, the parts of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes,