Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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SMYRNA

An important seaport on the western coast of Turkey. The name of it now is Izmir. It was founded in the twelfth century B.C. and for years conducted a prosperous trade. but by the time of Christ it was poverty-stricken, if we can judge from the tone used by the author of Revelation delivering God's message to the people of Smyrna. He praised the Christians for their steadfast faith despite hard living conditions. "I know the trials you have had and how poor you are," he assured them, ". . . and I will give you the crown of life for your prize" (Revelation 2:8-10).