Σιδών (Sidōn)
Sidōn
Sidon
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Sidon was a prominent Phoenician port city located on the Mediterranean coast, just north of Tyre. The name derives from a Hebrew root meaning "fishing" or "hunting," reflecting its identity as a wealthy maritime hub. In the Gospels, it appears as a specific geographic marker for Jesus’ ministry reaching beyond Jewish territories to Gentile regions.
Jesus references Sidon alongside Tyre to illustrate spiritual receptivity. He notes that if the miracles performed in his own hometowns had occurred there, their inhabitants would have repented long ago (Matthew 11:21-22; Luke 10:13-14). This comparison highlights a sobering theological point: greater exposure to divine power does not guarantee a response of faith.
The city also serves as the setting for two significant encounters. Jesus visits the region of Tyre and Sidon to heal the daughter of a Canaanite woman, demonstrating that his mission extends to all people (Matthew 15:21; Mark 7:24-31). Later, the Apostle Paul stops at Sidon during his voyage to Rome, where he is treated with kindness by the centurion in charge (Acts 27:3).
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Sidon represents a place where Jesus’ message crossed traditional boundaries. In the Gospels, this Phoenician city is not just a backdrop but a witness to His compassion. When He heals the Canaanite woman’s daughter there, it shows that God’s care extends beyond Israel to all who seek Him with faith.
Jesus also uses Sidon as a mirror for our own hearts. He suggests that if the miracles seen in Galilee had happened there, the people would have responded with repentance. This challenges us to consider how we respond to the grace and truth we encounter every day.
Even during Paul’s journey to Rome, Sidon offered a moment of human kindness. It reminds us that God’s providence works through simple acts of hospitality. Whether in ancient times or today, this place points to a God who welcomes seekers from every nation.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Sidon5×
- Sidon.2×
- Sidon,2×
- for Sidon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Σιδῶνι4×
- Σιδῶνος.2×
- Σιδῶνος2×
- Σιδῶνα,2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 15:21
Jesus went out from there and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon.
This verse marks Jesus’ physical entry into Gentile territory, setting the stage for His encounter with the Canaanite woman.
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Mark 7:31
Again he departed from the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and came to the sea of Galilee through the middle of the region of Decapolis.
Here the healing of the deaf man is completed, demonstrating that Jesus’ power to restore is effective even outside Jewish borders.
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Luke 6:17
He came down with them and stood on a level place, with a crowd of his disciples and a great number of the people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases,
The presence of people from Tyre and Sidon highlights the wide reach of Jesus’ ministry, drawing crowds who sought healing beyond their own regions.
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Acts 27:3
The next day, we touched at Sidon. Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him permission to go to his friends and refresh himself.
Paul’s stop here shows a moment of grace during his imprisonment, illustrating how God provides care even in difficult circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Sidon in the New Testament?
Why does Jesus mention Sidon in relation to judgment?
Did Jesus actually visit Sidon?
Every Occurrence (10 verses across 4 books)
Matthew 3 verses
“Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon which were done…
Matthew 11:22But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.
Matthew 15:21Jesus went out from there and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon.