Μαγδαλά, Μαγαδάν (Magdala, Magadan)
Magdala, Magadan
Magadan
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The names Magadan and Magdala refer to locations on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, appearing together in Matthew 15:39. While they likely denote the same region or nearby settlements, the textual tradition varies, with some manuscripts reading Magdalene where others read Magadan. The term Magdala derives from Aramaic, meaning "tower," a description that fits a fortified coastal settlement.
This brief geographical marker serves as the setting for Jesus’ final interactions in the Decapolis region before returning to Galilee. The variation in manuscript readings highlights the fluidity of place names in early transmission, yet both forms point to a specific, identifiable area on the lake’s western edge. Understanding these locations helps ground the narrative in its physical context.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Magadan or Magdala marks a quiet moment in the Gospel narrative. It is the place where Jesus withdrew after feeding the many near the Sea of Galilee. The name means tower, suggesting a fortified settlement on the lake’s shore. This small detail grounds the story in a real physical location.
For your faith, this reminds us that Jesus moves through ordinary places. He does not stay only in temples or cities. He walks along shores and enters towns known for strength and defense. These locations show that God meets people in their daily surroundings.
The variation in manuscript readings between Magdala and Magadan shows how carefully early Christians preserved these details. Whether called one name or the other, the site points to a specific area on the western edge of the lake. This history helps us see the Gospels as records of real events in real places.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Magadan.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Μαγαδάν.1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 15:39
Then he sent away the multitudes, got into the boat, and came into the borders of Magdala.
This verse marks Jesus' departure from the Decapolis region, using Magadan as the final geographical marker before He returns to Galilee.