Unveiling the Word
Understanding the Greek word Κυρήνιος (Kyrēnios) is crucial in biblical studies, particularly for interpreting the historical and cultural context of the New Testament. This term is significant because it refers to Quirinius, the Roman governor of Syria, mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. His governance is associated with a census that played a crucial role in the narrative of Jesus’ birth, providing historical anchoring for the Gospel account. Understanding the usage of Κυρήνιος sheds light on the Roman administrative practices of the period and the broader geopolitical landscape influencing early Christian history.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: Κυρήνιος (Kyrēnios) [kee-RAY-nee-os]
Etymology: The word Κυρήνιος is derived from the Latin name “Quirinius,” which is of Roman origin. Quirinius was a Roman aristocrat and governor of the province of Syria during the time of the Roman Empire.
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Part of Speech: Noun, Proper Noun. As a proper noun, Κυρήνιος identifies a specific individual, Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, a historical figure. The word follows the second declension pattern for masculine nouns in Greek.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
Meaning 1: Quirinius, the Roman Governor
The primary meaning of Κυρήνιος is a reference to Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, a Roman governor of Syria. His name is mentioned in Luke 2:2 in the context of a census, which played a pivotal role in the Gospel narrative, setting the historical backdrop for the birth of Jesus.
Exploring Similar Words
Καῖσαρ (Kaisar) [KAI-sar]: Refers to “Caesar,” the title used by Roman emperors. While Κυρήνιος identifies a specific governor, Καῖσαρ is a general title for the ruler of the Roman Empire.
Ἡγεμών (Hēgemōn) [hay-ge-MONE]: Means “governor” or “leader” in a general sense. Unlike Κυρήνιος, which refers to a particular historical figure, Ἡγεμών can apply to any provincial governor or leader.
Συρία (Syria) [soo-REE-ah]: Refers to the Roman province of Syria, which Κυρήνιος governed. It denotes a geographical region rather than a person.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Nouns:
- Case, Number, Gender: Κυρήνιος is a masculine noun in the singular form, following the second declension pattern for Greek nouns.
- Declension:
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Κυρήνιος (Kyrēnios) |
| Genitive | Κυρηνίου (Kyrēniou) |
| Dative | Κυρηνίῳ (Kyrēniō) |
| Accusative | Κυρήνιον (Kyrēnion) |
For a deeper understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The name Κυρήνιος is examined in Greek lexicons with a focus on its historical significance. Quirinius’ census, mentioned in Luke 2:2, has been a subject of considerable scholarly debate, as it helps date the events of the Nativity. Lexicons often address the difficulties of aligning this account with external Roman records, highlighting its importance in understanding the chronology of early Christianity. The word encapsulates the Roman influence on Judea and the administrative reach of the Empire during the time of Jesus’ birth.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Luke 2:2: “This was the first census that took place while Quirinius [Κυρήνιος] was governor of Syria.”
This scripture mentions Κυρήνιος in the context of a census that led Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, setting the scene for the birth of Jesus.
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Josephus | Antiquities of the Jews | “Under the governance of Quirinius ([Κυρήνιος]), a census was taken throughout Syria.” |
| Strabo | Geography | “Governors like Quirinius ([Κυρήνιος]) had administrative control over Roman provinces.” |
| Septuagint | 3 Maccabees 4:15 | “The Roman influence under figures like Quirinius ([Κυρήνιος]) shaped local governance.” |
Noteworthy Summary
Κυρήνιος (Kyrēnios) serves as a key historical reference point within the Gospel of Luke. The mention of Quirinius as governor during the census provides a timeline for the birth of Jesus, tying the biblical narrative to Roman administrative practices. This connection underscores the historical grounding of the New Testament accounts and their relevance in understanding the political context of early Christian history.
Did You Know?
- Did you know? Quirinius was a Roman senator who had also served as a consul and held several important military and administrative positions before becoming the governor of Syria.
- Did you know? The census under Quirinius has been a topic of debate among historians due to conflicting timelines in Roman records.
- Did you know? The Gospel of Luke’s reference to Quirinius is one of the few places in the New Testament where a Roman administrative event is mentioned, showing the intersection of Roman and Jewish histories.
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