Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Cos, also known as Kos, is an island in the southeastern Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese archipelago. It holds historical and biblical significance, particularly in the context of the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys. The island is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and its association with ancient Greek medicine. Biblical Reference: Cos is mentioned in the New Testament in the context of Paul's third missionary journey. In Acts 21:1, the Berean Standard Bible states: "After we had torn ourselves away from them, we set sail straight for Cos, and the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara." This passage highlights Cos as a stopover point for Paul and his companions as they traveled from Miletus to Jerusalem. Historical and Geographical Context: Cos is located off the southwestern coast of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). In antiquity, it was known for its strategic location along maritime trade routes and its fertile land, which supported agriculture and viticulture. The island was also famous for the Asclepion, a renowned center of healing dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. Hippocrates, often regarded as the "Father of Medicine," is believed to have been born on Cos, further cementing the island's reputation in the field of medicine. Cultural Significance: During the Hellenistic period, Cos was a vibrant cultural hub, attracting scholars, artists, and physicians. The island's blend of Greek and Roman influences is evident in its archaeological remains, including temples, theaters, and mosaics. The presence of a Jewish community on Cos during the Roman era is also documented, indicating the island's diverse population and its role as a crossroads of different cultures and beliefs. Paul's Journey and the Early Church: The brief mention of Cos in Acts 21:1 underscores the island's role as a waypoint in the spread of Christianity. Paul's journey through the Aegean Sea, including his stop at Cos, reflects the missionary zeal of the early church and its efforts to reach the far corners of the Roman Empire. The passage through Cos would have provided opportunities for Paul and his companions to engage with local populations, share the Gospel, and strengthen the nascent Christian communities in the region. Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations on Cos have uncovered significant artifacts and structures that shed light on the island's ancient past. These findings include remnants of the Asclepion, Roman villas, and early Christian basilicas, which offer insights into the religious and social dynamics of the island during the time of Paul's visit. Conclusion: While Cos is mentioned only briefly in the New Testament, its inclusion in the narrative of Paul's travels highlights its importance as a geographical and cultural landmark in the early Christian era. The island's rich history and archaeological heritage continue to provide valuable context for understanding the world in which the early church spread the message of Christ. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia COSkos (Kos, "summit"; the King James Version Coos): An island off the coast of Caria, Asia Minor, one of the Sporades, mountainous in the southern half, with ridges extending to a height of 2,500 ft.; identified with the modern Stanchio. It was famous in antiquity for excellent wine, amphorae, wheat, ointments, silk and other clothing (Coae vestes). The capital was also called Cos. It possessed a famous hospital and medical school, and was the birthplace of Hippocrates (the father of medicine), of Ptolemy Philadelphus, and of the celebrated painter Apelles. The large plane tree in the center of the town (over 2,000 years old) is called "the tree of Hippocrates" to this day. The older capital, Astypalaea, was in the western part of the island, the later (since 366 B.C.) in the eastern part. From almost every point can be seen beautiful landscapes and picturesque views of sea and land and mountain. Greek 2972. Kos -- Cos, an island in the Aegean Sea ... Cos, an island in the Aegean Sea. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Kos Phonetic Spelling: (koce) Short Definition: Cos Definition: Cos, an island ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2972.htm - 6k 2834. Knidos -- Cnidus, a city on the SW coast of Asia Minor Library Letter cxiii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter cxlvii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos, and Aetius, the Presbyter ... Letter cxliv. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter clii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter cvii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter cxl. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter cxvii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter xxxiv. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter cxxvii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Letter Xcii. To Julian, Bishop of Cos. Thesaurus Cos (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia COS. kos (Kos, "summit"; the King ... clothing (Coae vestes). The capital was also called Cos. It possessed ... /c/cos.htm - 8k Rhodes (2 Occurrences) Coos (1 Occurrence) Halicarnassus Ourselves (129 Occurrences) Torn (100 Occurrences) Direct (58 Occurrences) Parting (27 Occurrences) Patara (1 Occurrence) Parted (67 Occurrences) Resources Should a Christian be involved with cosplay? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cos (1 Occurrence)Acts 21:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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