The spelling of the word "Cenchrea" can be explained through the use of IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "Cen" is pronounced as /sɛn/, with the "c" being silent. The next syllable "chre" is pronounced as /kri/, with a rolling "r". The final syllable "a" is pronounced as /ə/, which is a schwa sound. Together, Cenchrea is pronounced as /sɛnkriə/, with the stress on the second syllable. This word can be challenging to spell and pronounce, but understanding its phonetic makeup can aid in proper usage.
Cenchrea is a geographical location mentioned in the Bible, primarily the New Testament, and also referred to as "Cenchreae." It was an ancient Greek port situated in the eastern part of the Corinthian isthmus in modern-day Greece, approximately eight miles (~13 kilometers) east-southeast of Corinth. Cenchrea served as a vital seaport for the nearby city-state of Corinth, connecting it with other Mediterranean regions.
The name Cenchrea is generally believed to derive from the Greek word "kenchreus," referring to the millet plant, a type of grain cultivated in the region. As an essential commercial hub, Cenchrea facilitated the trade of various goods, including agricultural products, fish, and manufactured items. It was also a strategic naval base and contributed to Corinth's prosperity and influence.
Moreover, Cenchrea played a significant role in the early Christian community. The Apostle Paul mentioned it in his letters as a congregation of believers with whom he interacted. In the Epistle to the Romans (16:1), Paul commends Phoebe, a deaconess from Cenchrea, to the believers in Rome. This indicates that Christianity had spread to Cenchrea, and it possessed an active and thriving Christian community during that time.
Today, Cenchrea is an archaeological site, preserving remnants of its ancient past. The ruins provide insights into the economic, cultural, and religious dynamics of the region during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Its historical significance, both as a prosperous seaport and as a place associated with early Christian communities, contributes to its importance in biblical and cultural contexts.
The word "Cenchrea" has its roots in ancient Greek. It primarily comes from the Greek word "Kenchreai" (Κεγχρεαί), which was the name of the ancient port of Corinth, located on the Saronic Gulf in Greece. The origin and meaning of the word "Kenchreai" are unclear, but it is believed to be of pre-Greek origin and could possibly be derived from a local Pelasgian or Phoenician word.