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Introduction
Understanding Greek names in biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and gaining insight into the historical and cultural context of early Christianity. The Greek name Ἐπαίνετος (Epainetos) is particularly significant because it appears in the New Testament as a commendable figure in the early church. Recognizing the meanings and connotations of such names helps us better understand the social dynamics and individual contributions within the early Christian communities.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἐπαίνετος, transliterated as Epainetos [eh-PIE-neh-tos].
- Etymology: Derived from the Greek word ἔπαινος (epainos), meaning “praise” or “commendation.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine), used as a personal name in the New Testament.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- A man’s name meaning “praiseworthy” or “commendable.”
Similar Words: Ἔπαινος (epainos) [EH-pie-nos] means “praise” or “commendation” in general. The name Ἐπαίνετος takes this noun form and uses it as a personal name, indicating someone who is worthy of praise or honor.
Further Insights: As a proper noun, Ἐπαίνετος does not have a declension in the way typical nouns do, as it is used exclusively as a personal name in the New Testament. However, it can appear in various cases, such as nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative, depending on its grammatical function in a sentence.
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek to learn more about Greek grammar, including declensions and proper noun usage.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Notes that Ἐπαίνετος is a personal name that appears in Romans 16:5. The name is derived from the noun ἔπαινος, meaning “praise.” Epainetos is mentioned as one of the first converts in Asia, a significant commendation.
Thayers: Describes Ἐπαίνετος as a masculine proper noun meaning “praiseworthy.” Thayer notes its occurrence in the New Testament and its etymological connection to ἔπαινος.
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Vines: Focuses on the significance of the name in the context of the New Testament, highlighting how personal names were often reflective of character or standing within the community.
LSJ: Mentions the name Ἐπαίνετος briefly, primarily referencing its root form, ἔπαινος, and its use in a variety of classical Greek texts to signify “praise” or “approval.”
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Confirms that Ἐπαίνετος is derived from ἔπαινος (G1868) and means “praiseworthy,” a commendable person.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 16:5: “Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ in Asia.” (Ἀσπάσασθε τὸν ἀγαπητόν μου Ἐπαίνετον, ὅς ἐστιν ἀπαρχὴ τῆς Ἀσίας εἰς Χριστόν.)
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | The Symposium | A person worthy of praise (Ἐπαίνετος) stands above all. |
| Herodotus | Histories | Among those named were men called Praiseworthy (Ἐπαίνετος). |
| Xenophon | Memorabilia | Those named Praiseworthy (Ἐπαίνετος) were often honored. |
| Septuagint Example | Genesis | The Lord blessed (Ἐπαίνετος) those who walked in His ways. |
| Septuagint Example | Psalms | Praiseworthy (Ἐπαίνετος) is he who trusts in the Lord. |
| Septuagint Example | Proverbs | A praiseworthy (Ἐπαίνετος) woman is like a rare jewel. |
Summary of Ἐπαίνετος (G1866: Epainetos)
The word Ἐπαίνετος (Epainetos) is a proper noun used as a personal name in the New Testament, meaning “praiseworthy” or “commendable.” It reflects the high regard held for an early convert to Christianity, particularly in Romans 16:5, where he is mentioned as a beloved member of the Christian community. Understanding the connotations of this name provides insight into the values and relationships within the early church, where names often carried deep meaning and were reflective of one’s character or reputation.
Did You Know?
Did you know that in ancient Greek culture, personal names like Ἐπαίνετος were often chosen for their meanings, which conveyed attributes or virtues desired by parents or the community? In the case of Ἐπαίνετος, it literally means “praiseworthy,” which might suggest a hope for the individual to live a life worthy of praise and honor.
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