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Bithynia

Greek: Βιθυνία / Romanized as Bithynía

This is a province in Asia Minor, to the south of the Euxine and Propontis.

Christian congregations were here formed at an early time (1 Peter 1:1). Bithynia also contained Nicaea, noted for being the birthplace of the Nicene Creed.

Paul was prevented by the Spirit from entering this province (Acts 16:7).

It is noted in church history as the province ruled over by Pliny as Roman proconsul, who was perplexed as to the course he should take with the numerous Christians brought before his tribunal on account of their profession of Christianity and their conduct, and wrote to Trajan, the emperor, for instructions (A.D. 107).

More information

• About Turkey in the Bible
• About ancient Rome in the Bible