How Philadelphia got its name ?
The name Philadelphia comes from Greek, meaning “brotherly love” (from phileo “to love” + adelphos “brother”) and was chosen by founder William Penn for his new Pennsylvania colony in 1682, symbolizing a haven of religious tolerance and peace, drawing inspiration from an ancient city in Asia Minor mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Penn aimed to create a city embodying unity and freedom, contrasting with overcrowded European cities.
Key Aspects of its Origin:
- Greek Roots:
The name combines phileo (love) and adelphos (brother).
William Penn:
As a Quaker seeking religious freedom, Penn established the city as a tolerant refuge, hoping it would live up to its name, notes Ancestry.com and Wikipedia.
- Ancient Precedent:
Penn was inspired by an older city named Philadelphia in Lydia (modern Turkey), which was also known for brotherly love and referenced in the Bible’s Book of Revelation.
- Symbolism:
The name represented Penn’s vision for a peaceful, unified community, a concept that became central to the city’s identity as the “City of Brotherly Love”.
Show your Brotherly love be supporting you favorite Philly teams
