Introduction
Understanding Greek names in the New Testament context enriches our knowledge of early Christian history and the foundational roles played by individuals. The name Ἐπαφρᾶς (Epaphras) is particularly significant as it appears in Paul’s epistles, representing an early Christian leader known for his dedication to the gospel and his role in the church’s growth. By exploring the meaning and usage of this name, we gain insight into the cultural and historical context of the early church and the relationships among early Christians.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἐπαφρᾶς, transliterated as Epaphras [eh-PAH-fras].
- Etymology: Likely a shortened form of Ἐπαφρόδιτος (Epaphroditos), meaning “lovely” or “charming,” derived from Ἐπαφρόδητος (a name associated with the goddess Aphrodite, conveying a sense of attractiveness or favor).
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine).
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- A Christian leader mentioned in the New Testament.
- A fellow servant and faithful minister in the early Christian community.
Similar Words: Ἐπαφρόδιτος (Epaphroditos) [eh-pah-FROH-dee-tos], meaning “charming” or “favored by Aphrodite.” While Ἐπαφρᾶς is a likely shortened version of Ἐπαφρόδιτος, the former specifically refers to the Christian leader in the New Testament, while the latter could refer to others bearing the same name or meaning.
Further Insights: Ἐπαφρᾶς is a proper noun, indicating the name of a person. It is a third-declension noun in Greek and takes the endings that correspond with its case, gender, and number. The name reflects a common practice in Greek culture to have names derived from deities or qualities associated with them. For understanding the declension and grammatical properties of Greek proper nouns, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Describes Ἐπαφρᾶς as a proper noun referring to a Christian leader from Colossae, noted as a servant of Christ who played a significant role in the early church’s ministry.
Thayers: Identifies Ἐπαφρᾶς as “lovely” and explains his close association with the Apostle Paul as a co-worker and spiritual leader, emphasizing his dedication to the early Christian church.
Vines: Notes that Ἐπαφρᾶς is a shortened form of Ἐπαφρόδιτος and provides context for his appearance in Paul’s writings as a committed servant and fellow worker for the gospel.
LSJ: Primarily discusses Ἐπαφρᾶς in the context of New Testament usage, where he is mentioned as an associate of Paul and a laborer for the gospel, likely derived from the longer form Ἐπαφρόδιτος.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Recognizes Ἐπαφρᾶς as a Christian leader, particularly noted for his fervent prayer and ministry among the Colossians and Laodiceans.
Related Scripture References
- Colossians 1:7 – “As you learned it from Epaphras [Ἐπαφρᾶς], our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf.”
- Colossians 4:12 – “Epaphras [Ἐπαφρᾶς], who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.”
- Philemon 1:23 – “Epaphras [Ἐπαφρᾶς], my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word in Parentheses |
|---|---|---|
| Not Found | ||
| Not Found | ||
| Not Found | ||
| Septuagint Example | Not found in LXX | |
| Septuagint Example | Not found in LXX | |
| Septuagint Example | Not found in LXX |
Summary of Ἐπαφρᾶς (G1889: Epaphras)
Ἐπαφρᾶς (Epaphras) is a proper noun denoting a significant early Christian leader closely associated with the Apostle Paul. Known for his dedication, prayer, and ministry, Epaphras is a key figure in the New Testament, especially within the context of Paul’s letters to the Colossians and Philemon. Understanding his name and role helps readers appreciate the networks and commitments of early Christian leaders in nurturing the growth of the early church. While Ἐπαφρᾶς does not appear in classical Greek texts or the Septuagint, his presence in the New Testament underscores his importance in the formative years of Christianity.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Epaphras was not only a minister to the Colossians but also a fellow prisoner with Paul? This close association with the Apostle highlights his dedication and bravery in spreading the gospel, despite the dangers faced by early Christians in the Roman Empire. His name, meaning “lovely” or “charming,” reflects a tradition of names derived from the Greek pantheon, yet his life demonstrates a complete commitment to Christ.
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