τόπος (topos)
topos
place
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 90 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word topos refers to a specific place or location, defined by its occupancy rather than just its physical boundaries. While it can describe a large region, it most often points to a particular spot where someone stands or something happens. This focus on usage distinguishes it from words that emphasize vast territory or enclosed land.
Scripture uses this term in vivid concrete settings, such as the "place of a skull" (Golgotha) in Matthew 27:33 or the "desert place" where Jesus fed the five thousand in Matthew 14:13. It also appears in spiritual contexts, like Jesus promising to prepare a place for his followers in John 14:2.
Beyond physical geography, topos carries metaphorical weight. It can signify a person’s station or condition, as seen when Paul speaks of having an "open door" (a place of opportunity) for ministry in 1 Corinthians 16:9. This dual meaning highlights how ancient writers connected physical location with life circumstances.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word topus reminds us that God meets us in specific moments and locations. It is not just about geography but about where life happens. When Jesus withdrew to a deserted place, He sought solitude for prayer, showing that our own need for quiet space is valid and holy.
Even in the busiest times, this word invites us to find spiritual rest. Whether you are in a crowded city or a quiet room, God’s presence fills your current place. The empty tomb at Golgotha proves that no location is beyond redemption. Your present circumstances, however difficult, are held within His care.
We trust that He prepares a place for us, not just in heaven but here today. This hope anchors our hearts as we navigate daily life with faith and peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 90 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- place45×
- a place16×
- place,8×
- places7×
- place.4×
- [the] place2×
- the place1×
- spot1×
- room1×
- places;1×
- parts1×
- opportunity1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τόπον38×
- τόπος12×
- τόπῳ11×
- τόπου7×
- τόπον,6×
- τόπων3×
- τόπους3×
- τόπῳ,2×
- τόπος.2×
- τόπος,2×
- τόπον.¶2×
- τόποις2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 14:35
When the people of that place recognized him, they sent into all that surrounding region and brought to him all who were sick;
This verse highlights how recognition of Jesus transforms a specific location into a center for healing and compassion.
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Mark 6:31
He said to them, “Come away into a deserted place, and rest awhile.” For there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.
Here, Jesus invites His disciples to a deserted place for rest, acknowledging their human need for physical and spiritual renewal.
-
Matthew 28:6
He is not here, for he has risen, just like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.
The angel points to the empty tomb, using the specific place of burial as proof of the resurrection's reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does topus mean in the Bible?
How is topus different from chora?
Why is the 'place' important in John 14:2?
Every Occurrence (90 verses across 14 books)
Matthew 9 verses
“When an unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest, and doesn’t find it.
Matthew 14:13Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place apart. When the multitudes heard it,…
Matthew 14:15When evening had come, his disciples came to him, saying, “This place is deserted, and the hour is already late. Send…
Matthew 14:35When the people of that place recognized him, they sent into all that surrounding region and brought to him all who…
Matthew 24:7For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, plagues, and earthquakes…
Matthew 24:15“When, therefore, you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in…
Matthew 26:52Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place, for all those who take the sword will die by the sword.
Matthew 27:33When they came to a place called “Golgotha”, that is to say, “The place of a skull,”
Matthew 28:6He is not here, for he has risen, just like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.