Brief Overview of Ἀριστόβουλος (G711: Aristóboulos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Aristóboulos

Root Words:

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• Ἀριστόβουλος (Aristóboulos): This name is derived from two Greek words: ἄριστος (áristos), meaning “best” or “excellent,” and βούλομαι (boúlomai), meaning “to wish” or “to desire.” Thus, Aristóboulos can be interpreted as “one who wishes the best” or “excellent counselor.”

Primary Meanings:

• Proper Name: Ἀριστόβουλος is a personal name rather than a common noun. It was used for individuals, notably in the New Testament.
• Historical Figures: The name is associated with a few notable individuals, including Aristóboulos, a Jewish leader during the time of the early Christian church.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines Ἀριστόβουλος primarily as a personal name. It provides context for notable individuals with this name, such as Aristóboulos, who is mentioned in the New Testament as a prominent figure among the early Christians.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon agrees with BDAG on the identification of Ἀριστόβουλος as a personal name. It notes that Aristóboulos was a Jewish leader who played a role in the early Christian church.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary confirms that Ἀριστόβουλος is used as a proper name. It highlights the historical context of Aristóboulos in the early church and his association with notable events.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides similar information, emphasizing that Ἀριστόβουλος is a name used for individuals in the historical and biblical context.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies Ἀριστόβουλος as a personal name, with a focus on its occurrence in the New Testament.

Bible Verses:

• Romans 16:10 (KJV): “Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus’ household.”
• Here, Ἀριστόβουλος is used to refer to Aristóboulos, a person of significance in the early church.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, Ἀριστόβουλος is generally used as a proper name. Examples include:

• Josephus’ “Antiquities of the Jews”: Mentions Aristóboulos as a Jewish leader, reflecting his historical significance.
• Philo’s Works: Aristóboulos is referenced in discussions of Jewish history and leadership.
• Other Historical Accounts: References to Aristóboulos in ancient texts underscore his role in Jewish and early Christian history.

4. Summary:

The term Ἀριστόβουλος (G711: Aristóboulos) is a Greek personal name, meaning “one who wishes the best” or “excellent counselor.” It is used to denote individuals, notably Aristóboulos, a Jewish leader mentioned in the New Testament. BDAG and other lexicons focus on its use as a proper name with historical significance, particularly in the early Christian church. Classic Greek literature and historical texts provide context for Aristóboulos, highlighting his role in Jewish and early Christian history.