Brief Overview of Ἀλεξανδρεύς (G221)

The Greek word Ἀλεξανδρεύς (Alexandréus) refers to an “Alexandrian” or someone from Alexandria, a prominent city in Egypt. The term is used in the New Testament to describe individuals associated with Alexandria, highlighting their geographic or cultural background.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G221 Ἀλεξανδρεύς (Alexandréus): Strong’s Concordance defines this term as “an Alexandrian,” indicating someone originating from Alexandria. Alexandria was a major city in Egypt known for its cultural and intellectual significance. The term is used in the New Testament, specifically in Acts 6:9 and Acts 18:24, to identify individuals from this city.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Thayer’s Lexicon expands on this by noting that Ἀλεξανδρεύς refers to a person from Alexandria, a city famous for its library and as a center of Hellenistic learning. The use of the term in Acts points to the individuals’ origins rather than any specific cultural or doctrinal attributes.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines Ἀλεξανδρεύς as “a native of Alexandria,” emphasizing its geographical context. It notes that Alexandria was a significant cultural and educational hub in the ancient world. The term is applied to certain individuals in the New Testament, identifying them as being from this notable city.

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• The BDB Lexicon does not include Ἀλεξανδρεύς, focusing primarily on Hebrew terms. However, the usage of the term in the New Testament aligns with its definitions in Greek lexicons.

In summary, Ἀλεξανδρεύς (Alexandréus) refers to a person from Alexandria, Egypt. This term is used in the New Testament to denote individuals’ geographic origin, specifically those from Alexandria, a city known for its cultural and intellectual prominence. Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, and the LSJ Lexicon all provide a consistent understanding of the term’s meaning and usage.