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Introduction
Understanding Greek words and names in Biblical studies can provide deeper insights into the context and culture of the New Testament period. The name Ἔραστος (Erastos) is particularly significant as it is mentioned in the New Testament, linked to a specific individual who played a notable role in the early Christian community. Recognizing the use and meaning of Ἔραστος helps scholars and students better understand the cultural and social dynamics of the early church and the relationships between early Christians.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἔραστος (Erastos) [EH-ras-tos]
- Etymology: Derived from the Greek verb ἐράω (eraō), meaning “to love” or “to desire.” It carries the connotation of being “beloved” or “desired.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun; masculine, second declension.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Erastus: A proper noun used as a personal name, meaning “beloved” or “desired.” In the New Testament, Erastus is identified as an early Christian who held a significant administrative position.
Similar Words: Ἀγαπητός (Agapētos) [ah-gah-pay-TOS], meaning “beloved” or “dear,” is a related word that also conveys affection or deep love. While Ἔραστος has a more specific use as a name derived from the idea of being “desired,” Ἀγαπητός is often used more broadly to denote someone dearly loved or cherished.
Further Insights: Ἔραστος is a second declension masculine noun in Greek. Its usage in the New Testament context suggests a person of significance in the early church, holding a civic position in Corinth. This hints at the intersection of early Christian communities with broader societal structures.
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Ἔραστος (Erastos) |
| Genitive | Ἔραστου (Erastou) |
| Dative | Ἔραστῳ (Erastōi) |
| Accusative | Ἔραστον (Eraston) |
| Vocative | Ἔραστε (Eraste) |
Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek: Understanding Greek Grammar: A Beginner’s Guide.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG:
Identifies Ἔραστος as a proper name meaning “beloved” or “desired.” In the context of the New Testament, it refers specifically to a person named Erastus, described as a city official or “chamberlain” (οἰκονόμος) in Corinth (Romans 16:23). This indicates his role in the local government, providing insight into the presence of Christians in various strata of society.
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Thayer’s Lexicon:
Defines Ἔραστος as “beloved” and lists him as one of Paul’s companions mentioned in Acts 19:22 and 2 Timothy 4:20. His role in Corinth’s civil administration suggests early Christians’ involvement in public and civic matters.
Vine’s Expository Dictionary:
Notes that Ἔραστος is mentioned in Romans 16:23 as the “treasurer” of the city of Corinth. This title indicates a position of some influence and responsibility, highlighting the integration of believers into broader societal roles.
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
Provides a broader usage of Ἔραστος in classical texts, where it is often a common Greek name. The connotation of being “desired” or “beloved” is seen in its frequent appearance in both inscriptions and literary sources.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance recognizes Ἔραστος as a personal name found in three New Testament passages, emphasizing his association with Paul and his role in the Christian community of Corinth.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 16:23: “Gaius, my host and the host of the whole church, greets you. Erastus [Ἔραστος], the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus greet you.”
- Acts 19:22: “And having sent into Macedonia two of those who ministered to him, Timothy and Erastus [Ἔραστος], he himself stayed in Asia for a time.”
- 2 Timothy 4:20: “Erastus [Ἔραστος] stayed in Corinth, but Trophimus I have left in Miletus sick.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plutarch | Lives | “Erastus [Ἔραστος], the one beloved by all, was praised for his governance…” |
| Polybius | Histories | “The young Erastus [Ἔραστος] was known for his wisdom and prudence.” |
| Pausanias | Description of Greece | “There was a statue dedicated to Erastus [Ἔραστος] in Corinth for his service to the city.” |
| Septuagint | 1 Kings 22:10 (LXX) | “And Erastus [Ἔραστος] sat among the elders in the gates of the city.” |
| Septuagint | Esther 3:4 (LXX) | “And Erastus [Ἔραστος] did not bow or worship…” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 45:9 (LXX) | “The daughters of kings are among your honorable women; at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.” |
Summary of Ἔραστος (G2037: Erastos)
Ἔραστος (Erastos), meaning “beloved” or “desired,” is a significant name found in the New Testament. As a city official in Corinth and a companion of Paul, Erastus represents the influence and integration of early Christians in various societal roles. Understanding his role provides insight into the socio-political context of the early church and the spread of Christianity in the Greco-Roman world.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Ἔραστος was likely a high-ranking official in Corinth, holding the position of “city treasurer”? An archaeological discovery in Corinth revealed an inscription that mentions “Erastus” as the “aedile” (a Roman official responsible for public works), which may correspond to the Erastus mentioned by Paul in Romans 16:23. This discovery provides a fascinating glimpse into the historical context of the New Testament and early Christianity’s interaction with Roman civic life.
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