How to Pronounce
Attaliaat-TAH-lee-uh
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Meaning
that increases or sends
Historical Context
Attalia: An Ancient Port City of Asia Minor
Attalia appears only once in Scripture, yet its mention in Acts 14:25 marks an important moment in early Christian missionary work. The city served as a crucial Mediterranean port in what is now southern Turkey, and understanding its historical context enriches our reading of Paul's journeys.
Etymology and Original Meaning
The name Attalia derives from Greek origins, carrying the meaning "that increases" or "sends forth"—a fitting name for a thriving harbor city. The etymology reflects the city's role as a commercial hub where goods and people were constantly sent outward across the Mediterranean Sea. When learning how to pronounce Attalia correctly, remember the emphasis falls on the second syllable: at-TAH-lee-uh. Pronouncing Attalia accurately helps distinguish it from similar place names in biblical geography.
Biblical Significance and Location
In Acts 14:25, Luke records that Paul and Barnabas "went down to Attalia" after completing their work in the interior regions of Asia Minor during Paul's first missionary journey. From this port city, they embarked on a ship bound for Antioch in Syria, their home base. This brief mention underscores Attalia's strategic importance as a departure point for Christian missionaries.
The city was founded by Attalus II Philadelphus, a Hellenistic king, and flourished as a major trading center. Its harbor made it indispensable for Mediterranean commerce and travel, which explains why Paul and Barnabas naturally used it to return home.
Why Attalia Matters for Bible Readers
While Attalia receives minimal scriptural attention, it represents the broader infrastructure that enabled early Christian expansion. Understanding Attalia pronunciation and its geographical role helps readers visualize Paul's missionary routes and appreciate the practical realities of ancient travel. The city reminds us that even brief biblical references often point to significant historical and cultural contexts that shaped the apostolic church's growth and movement throughout the Mediterranean world.