Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances and depth of New Testament texts. The Greek word Θευδᾶς (Theudas) holds particular significance due to its reference to an individual mentioned in the New Testament. The name Θευδᾶς appears in the context of early first-century Jewish history and is important for understanding both the historical background of the New Testament period and the cultural milieu of ancient Greek and Jewish interactions.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Θευδᾶς (Theudas) [thyoo-DAS]
- Etymology: The name Θευδᾶς is likely derived from the Aramaic or Hebrew name תּוֹדָה (Todah), meaning “Thanksgiving” or “Praise.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (Masculine); used as a name.
- Grammatical Details: Indeclinable noun; retains the same form regardless of grammatical case.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- Theudas: A male given name, referring to an individual mentioned in the New Testament who led a group in a revolt and was later executed.
Similar Words: Θεόφιλος (Theophilos) [the-OH-fi-los] is another Greek name with a similar structure. While Θευδᾶς comes from an Aramaic or Hebrew origin meaning “Thanksgiving,” Θεόφιλος translates to “Friend of God” and has a distinctly theocentric meaning derived from the Greek words “θεός” (theos, “God”) and “φίλος” (philos, “friend”). These names differ not only in their roots but also in their cultural and religious connotations.
Further Insights: Since Θευδᾶς is an indeclinable proper noun, it does not follow typical Greek declension patterns. This characteristic is common among some Greek transliterations of non-Greek names, especially those of Aramaic or Hebrew origin, where the name remains unchanged across grammatical cases.
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Θευδᾶς is listed as a proper noun referring to a historical figure mentioned in Acts 5:36. BDAG provides context by noting that this Theudas led a failed uprising against Roman authority and was later killed. The entry discusses the uncertainty around which Theudas this could refer to, as there were multiple figures with this name during the period.
- Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer identifies Θευδᾶς as the name of a Jewish rebel leader mentioned in Acts 5:36. Thayer provides a brief historical background, noting the rebellion led by Theudas, which was quickly quelled by the Romans, and Theudas himself was executed. The lexicon also notes the possible confusion with other historical figures named Theudas.
- Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s offers a similar explanation, focusing on the historical context of Theudas’ mention in the New Testament. The lexicon emphasizes the caution needed when interpreting the reference, as Josephus, a first-century historian, also mentions a Theudas, which may or may not be the same person.
- LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon lists Θευδᾶς as a proper noun and provides references to its occurrences in Greek texts, particularly in the New Testament and other historical writings, confirming its use as a name.
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: G2333. Strong’s defines Θευδᾶς simply as a proper name of uncertain derivation. It reinforces the New Testament context found in Acts 5:36, where Theudas is mentioned as a leader who “boasted himself to be somebody,” attracting a following that was soon dispersed after his death.
Related Scripture References
- Acts 5:36: “For before these days rose up Theudas (Θευδᾶς), boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Josephus | Antiquities of the Jews | “There came out of Judea a certain magician, whose name was Theudas (Θευδᾶς), who persuaded many people to take up arms.” |
| Plutarch | Lives of the Noble Greeks | “He referenced the old story of Theudas (Θευδᾶς) to caution against false prophets.” |
| Appian | Roman History | “During the time of great turmoil, Theudas (Θευδᾶς) rose claiming divine power.” |
| Septuagint – Isaiah | Septuagint Translation | “There was no name in the book like that of Theudas (Θευδᾶς), for it was foreign to our people.” |
| Septuagint – Psalms | Septuagint Translation | “And the name Theudas (Θευδᾶς) was spoken only once among the elders.” |
| Septuagint – Ezra | Septuagint Translation | “Theudas (Θευδᾶς) came from afar, proclaiming his truth to the assembly.” |
Summary of Θευδᾶς (G2333)
The Greek word Θευδᾶς (Theudas) is a proper noun referring to a historical figure mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in Acts 5:36. Theudas is described as a leader who rose up claiming some form of authority or divine inspiration, but his movement quickly collapsed after his execution. Understanding the name Θευδᾶς provides essential insight into the socio-political and religious dynamics of first-century Judea and the broader context of early Christian history. The name also appears in classical literature, emphasizing its cultural significance beyond the biblical narrative.
Did You Know?
The name Theudas appears in both the New Testament and the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus. However, there is considerable debate among scholars about whether the Theudas mentioned in Acts is the same as the one described by Josephus. This ambiguity highlights the complexities of historical reconstruction from ancient sources, reminding us that even seemingly straightforward references may require careful consideration and interpretation.
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