'Ioυδαíα in the Geographical List of Acts 2:9–11 and Syria as "Greater Judea"

The appearance of 'Ioυδαíα in the geographical list presented in Acts 2:9–11 has puzzled interpreters almost from the time of the publication of the book of Acts. It will be argued that this word should be retained in the text and should be understood in the light of traditional and especially messianic ideas about the extent of the promised land. The close association of Judea and Syria is especially important for understanding the meaning of 'Ioυδαíα in Acts 2:9–11.