Πέργη (Pergē)
Pergē
Perga
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Perga is a proper noun referring to an ancient city located in the region of Pamphylia, situated along the Cestius River. In the New Testament, it appears exclusively within the book of Acts, serving as a geographical marker for the early missionary journeys rather than a site of theological discourse.
The sources note that the name likely derives from a root meaning "earthy," though this etymology is presented with some uncertainty. The city functions primarily as a setting: Paul and his companions visited Perga before moving on to Antioch in Pisidia, and later returned through it on their way back (Acts 13:13–14; 14:25). Its mention helps trace the route of the apostles across Asia Minor.
Translators consistently render Πέργη as "Perga," preserving the original name without attempting to translate its meaning. This approach reflects the standard practice for place names, which are treated as fixed identifiers rather than descriptive terms. The word carries no inherent theological weight beyond its role in narrating the spread of the gospel through specific historical locations.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Acts records Paul’s journey through Perga with simple precision. John Mark leaves the group here, and the team moves on to Antioch of Pisidia. The text does not dwell on drama or debate. It simply notes the location, letting the reader see how the gospel spread across real places.
This matters for your faith because it shows God working through ordinary travel. You do not need grand settings to encounter Him. He meets people in cities, on roads, and in synagogues just as He meets you in your daily routine. The narrative trusts that the message carries its own weight.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Perga3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Πέργῃ1×
- Πέργης1×
- Πέργην1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 13:13
Now Paul and his company set sail from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. John departed from them and returned to Jerusalem.
This verse marks a pivotal moment where John Mark departs, highlighting the human complexities and shifts in leadership within the early missionary team.
-
Acts 13:14
But they, passing on from Perga, came to Antioch of Pisidia. They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down.
The mention of Perga here serves as a transitional marker, showing the apostles moving from the coastal region into the interior to engage with Jewish communities.
-
Acts 14:25
When they had spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia.
This occurrence confirms that Paul and Barnabas returned through Perga on their way back, reinforcing the city's role as a key stop on their first missionary route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Perga mean in the Bible?
Why is Perga important in Acts?
Does Perga have spiritual significance?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
Now Paul and his company set sail from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. John departed from them and returned to…
Acts 13:14But they, passing on from Perga, came to Antioch of Pisidia. They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat…
Acts 14:25When they had spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia.