Matthew 4:15
The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;
Original Language Analysis
γῆ
The land
G1093
γῆ
The land
Strong's:
G1093
Word #:
1 of 13
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
γῆ
The land
G1093
γῆ
The land
Strong's:
G1093
Word #:
4 of 13
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
Νεφθαλείμ,
of Nephthalim
G3508
Νεφθαλείμ,
of Nephthalim
Strong's:
G3508
Word #:
5 of 13
nephthaleim (i.e., naphthali), a tribe in palestine
ὁδὸν
by the way
G3598
ὁδὸν
by the way
Strong's:
G3598
Word #:
6 of 13
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Γαλιλαία
Galilee
G1056
Γαλιλαία
Galilee
Strong's:
G1056
Word #:
11 of 13
galilaea (i.e., the heathen circle), a region of palestine
Historical Context
After Assyrian conquest in 734-732 BC, many Jews were deported and Gentiles settled in Galilee (2 Kings 15:29). By Jesus' time, it had significant Gentile population, making it a fitting place to begin the gospel's expansion to all peoples.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Christ's ministry beginning in 'Galilee of the Gentiles' reveal about God's heart for all nations?
- How does this geographic detail demonstrate that the gospel was always intended for Jews and Gentiles alike?
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Analysis & Commentary
The phrase 'Galilee of the Gentiles' emphasizes this region's mixed population and its historical role in God's plan to include the nations. Isaiah's prophecy pointed to this cosmopolitan region as the starting point for messianic light, demonstrating that God's salvation extends beyond ethnic Israel. Christ's ministry beginning here foreshadows the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.