Λυκαονία (Lukaonia)
Lukaonia
Lycaonia
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun Lykaonia refers to a specific region in ancient Asia Minor, situated between Pisidia, Cilicia, Cappadocia, Galatia, and Phrygia. Its name derives from the Greek word for wolf, suggesting a landscape historically associated with wild terrain or fierce inhabitants. This district was part of the larger Roman province of Galatia and included significant urban centers such as Derbe, Lystra, and Iconium.
In the New Testament, this geographical term appears only once, in Acts 14:6. The verse describes Paul and Barnabas fleeing persecution and taking refuge in the towns of Lycaonia. By naming this region, the text highlights the breadth of their missionary journey, moving beyond major cities into the surrounding rural districts where they found safety among new communities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Lycaonia was not a major city but a rugged region in ancient Asia Minor, known for its wild terrain and fierce reputation. In Acts 14:6, Paul and Barnabas fled there to escape persecution. This detail shows that the early gospel message reached remote and challenging places, not just urban centers.
For your faith, this reminds us that God’s work often happens in unexpected or difficult circumstances. When life feels chaotic or unsafe, remember that the apostles themselves sought refuge in such areas. Your own seasons of uncertainty are part of a larger story where God provides shelter and purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Lycaonia,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Λυκαονίας,1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 14:6
they became aware of it and fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, Derbe, and the surrounding region.
This verse uniquely records Lycaonia as a place of refuge for Paul and Barnabas, highlighting its role in the spread of the gospel beyond major cities.