Σπανία (Spania)
Spania
Spain
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun Spania refers to the Iberian Peninsula, known in classical and Roman times as Spain. The sources indicate that this term likely entered Greek from a foreign origin, eventually adopting the late Roman form Hispania or the shortened Spania used here. It designates the entire landmass south of the Pyrenees mountains.
In the New Testament, this geographical name appears only twice, both within Paul’s letter to the Romans. In these verses, Paul mentions his desire to visit Spain as part of his broader missionary planning (Romans 15:24, 28). The usage is strictly locational, marking a distant western boundary of the known world at that time.
Thayer’s lexicon notes an etymological connection to the Greek word for "scarcity," though this linguistic link does not alter its primary function as a proper name for the region. Paul’s reference highlights the extensive reach of early Christian outreach, extending beyond the Mediterranean core into the far west.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Spain represents the far western edge of the known world in Paul’s time. When he mentions it in Romans, he is looking beyond the familiar lands of the Mediterranean toward places that felt distant and unknown. This shows how the early church did not limit its vision to one region or culture.
Your faith also reaches beyond your immediate circle. Just as Paul planned to carry the message to Spain, you are part of a story that extends into territories you may never visit. God’s work is not confined to where you stand today but includes the far corners of the earth.
This hope connects you to believers everywhere. Whether near or far, your life contributes to a mission that spans continents. Trust that God is at work in places you cannot see, just as Paul trusted Him for his journey westward.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Spain.1×
- Spain1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Σπανίαν.1×
- Σπανίαν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 15:24
whenever I travel to Spain, I will come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while.
Paul links his travel plans to Spain with a desire for mutual encouragement, showing that mission and community support are intertwined.
-
Romans 15:28
When therefore I have accomplished this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will go on by way of you to Spain.
This verse marks the completion of Paul’s current task in Jerusalem before he turns his attention to the western frontier of Spain.