Learn more about Cilicia

Introduction to Cilicia

Cilicia was an ancient region located in the southeastern part of Asia Minor, in what is now modern-day Turkey. Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Taurus Mountains to the north, Cilicia played a prominent role in both biblical and secular ancient history. Due to its strategic position along major trade routes and its coastal access, Cilicia became a center for commerce, military activity, and cultural exchange. In the Bible, Cilicia is notably associated with the Apostle Paul, who was born in the Cilician city of Tarsus.

Cilicia Pronunciation

“Cilicia” is pronounced as sih-LISH-ee-uh, with the emphasis on the second syllable.

Cilicia in the Bible

Cilicia appears several times in the New Testament, primarily in relation to the life and ministry of Paul. It was part of the Roman Empire during the time of the apostles and formed part of the Roman province of Syria-Cilicia. Key references include:

• Acts 6:9: Some members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen are described as being from Cilicia. These Jews debated with Stephen before his martyrdom, possibly including Saul (Paul) who is later mentioned as consenting to Stephen's death.
• Acts 9:11, 30: After Paul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, he is sent to Tarsus in Cilicia for safety and preparation before his missionary work.
• Acts 15:23, 41: The apostles and elders in Jerusalem write a letter to Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, instructing them on essential practices of the faith following the Jerusalem Council.
• Galatians 1:21: Paul writes that after his conversion, he went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia, suggesting that he spent considerable time there before beginning his more public ministry.

Historical and Cultural Context of Cilicia

Historically, Cilicia was divided into two parts: Cilicia Trachea (rugged Cilicia) to the west and Cilicia Pedias (flat Cilicia) to the east. Cilicia Trachea was mountainous and difficult to govern, often associated with piracy and banditry. Cilicia Pedias was more fertile and accessible, known for its agricultural productivity and strategic cities.

By the time of the New Testament, Cilicia was firmly under Roman control and contributed significantly to Roman administration and military logistics. It was also a melting pot of Greco-Roman culture, Eastern traditions, and Jewish diasporic communities. Tarsus, the region’s capital, was a prominent intellectual hub rivaling Athens and Alexandria, known for its philosophical schools and educational institutions.

Related Themes and Meanings to Cilicia

• Paul the Apostle: Born in Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, Paul’s Roman citizenship and Greek education provided him a unique position to bridge the Jewish and Gentile worlds in his missionary work.
• Jewish Diaspora: Cilicia was home to a significant Jewish population, playing a role in early Christian evangelism and conflicts with Jewish authorities.
• Roman Provinces: Cilicia’s inclusion in Roman administrative structure made it accessible for early Christian missions and part of the greater Roman infrastructure that facilitated the spread of the Gospel.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Cilicia

• Tarsus, Paul’s hometown, was not only a Roman city but a place known for its academic excellence, meaning Paul likely had exposure to a rich intellectual environment from an early age.
• The Roman general Pompey subdued the pirates of Cilicia Trachea around 67 BC, making the region safer for trade and travel, which would later benefit Christian missionary journeys.
• In early Christian tradition, Cilicia became one of the first areas outside Judea to receive organized Christian teachings directly from apostles and their companions.

Cilicia's Role in Early Christianity

Cilicia’s significance in the New Testament goes beyond geography. As Paul’s homeland, it shaped his identity and outreach. His familiarity with the Greco-Roman world and his ability to speak to both Jews and Gentiles was no doubt influenced by growing up in a diverse and Hellenistic environment. The region became a launching point for missionary activity, and Paul’s journeys frequently brought him back to or through Cilicia, showing the strategic importance of this coastal region in the expansion of the early Church.