Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H7339 רְחוֹב (rechob): A broad place, street, or square, often used in the Old Testament to describe open areas within a city where people gather for various activities. This Hebrew term shares a similar semantic range with the Greek πλατεῖα, emphasizing the concept of a wide, communal space.

Usage: The term πλατεῖα is used in the New Testament to describe a wide street or public space where people gather. It often conveys the idea of a central, open area in a city where significant activities or gatherings occur.

Context: The Greek word πλατεῖα appears in several New Testament passages, highlighting its significance in the urban landscape of ancient cities. In the context of the New Testament, πλατεῖα is often associated with public life and communal activities. For instance, in Matthew 6:5, Jesus warns against praying in the streets (πλατεῖαι) to be seen by others, emphasizing the importance of sincerity over public display. Similarly, in Luke 14:21, the master instructs his servant to go out quickly into the streets (πλατεῖαι) and alleys of the town to bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame, illustrating the use of public spaces for gathering people.

The πλατεῖα is also mentioned in Revelation 11:8, where the bodies of the two witnesses lie in the street of the great city, symbolizing a place of public exposure and attention. This usage underscores the role of πλατεῖα as a focal point in urban settings, where significant events and interactions occur.

In the ancient world, πλατεῖαι were essential for commerce, social interaction, and public discourse. They served as venues for markets, public speeches, and community gatherings. The New Testament references to πλατεῖα reflect these functions, portraying them as places where both everyday life and extraordinary events unfold.