Introduction
Understanding Greek words is fundamental in Biblical studies as it reveals deeper meanings and cultural contexts embedded within the original texts. The Greek word Ἑρμᾶς (Hermas) is particularly significant because it is a proper noun referring to an individual mentioned in the New Testament. The name Hermas appears in Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, providing insight into the early Christian community in Rome. Furthermore, Hermas carries a rich background in ancient Greek culture due to its connection to the Greek god Hermes, known for his roles as a messenger and a god of trade and communication.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἑρμᾶς (Hermas) [her-MAHS]
- Etymology: Derived from the name Hermes (Ἑρμῆς), the Greek god of messengers, commerce, and travel.
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine); first declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Hermas: A personal name used for an individual mentioned in Romans 16:14 in the New Testament.
- Follower of Hermes: Implied by the etymology, suggesting a possible cultural background or devotion related to the Greek god Hermes.
Similar Words: Ἑρμῆς (Hermes) [her-MAYS] is the name of the Greek god known for being a messenger, guide of souls, and god of trade, which differs from Ἑρμᾶς (Hermas) as the latter is a personal name derived from Hermes and not the deity himself.
Further Insights: The name Ἑρμᾶς (Hermas) follows the first declension pattern for masculine nouns in Greek. It is important to recognize that proper names in Greek often reflect cultural and religious affiliations. Below is the full declension chart for Ἑρμᾶς:
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Ἑρμᾶς |
| Genitive | Ἑρμᾶ |
| Dative | Ἑρμᾷ |
| Accusative | Ἑρμᾶν |
| Vocative | Ἑρμᾶ |
Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Ἑρμᾶς is defined as a personal name of a male Christian mentioned in Romans 16:14. The name likely reflects cultural influences from the Hellenistic world, where naming individuals after gods was common.
Thayer’s: Provides a similar definition, highlighting that Hermas was one of the early Christians in Rome greeted by Paul in his letter to the Romans. Thayer notes that the name Hermas is derived from Hermes, indicating a possible connection to Greek culture.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Emphasizes that Ἑρμᾶς is a proper noun representing an individual Christian. The dictionary also explores the cultural implications of the name, considering how early Christians often bore names linked to the pagan deities of their times.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists Ἑρμᾶς as a Greek personal name derived from Hermes, explaining its usage primarily as a common name in ancient Greek society and later in Christian communities.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies Ἑρμᾶς as “Hermas,” mentioned in Romans 16:14. The concordance points out the Hellenistic origin of the name, tied to the god Hermes.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 16:14: “Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas [Ἑρμᾶν], and the brothers who are with them.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “Hermes, the messenger of the gods, delivered swift messages, his name (Ἑρμᾶς) well-known.” |
| Plato | Symposium | “Hermes (Ἑρμᾶς) was considered the intermediary, bridging mortal and divine realms.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “In trade and travel, the name Hermas (Ἑρμᾶς) was often invoked for safe journeys.” |
Septuagint Examples:
No direct examples of the name Ἑρμᾶς appear in the Septuagint; however, the name Hermes (Ἑρμῆς) can be found in some later texts, reflecting its cultural penetration in Jewish-Hellenistic circles.
Summary of Ἑρμᾶς (G2057)
In summary, Ἑρμᾶς (Hermas) is a Greek proper noun that refers to a male Christian mentioned in the New Testament book of Romans. The name’s etymological roots tie back to the Greek god Hermes, reflecting the cultural interplay between early Christianity and the broader Hellenistic world. Understanding the name Hermas provides insights into early Christian community dynamics and the integration of converts from diverse cultural backgrounds. The usage of the name Hermas in the New Testament highlights the growing diversity within the early Church and the inclusive nature of its community.
Did You Know?
Did you know that in early Christian writings, there is a work called “The Shepherd of Hermas,” which is attributed to a Christian named Hermas? This text, although not included in the canonical New Testament, was highly regarded by early Christians and provides fascinating insights into early Christian theology and church practices.
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