Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for deeper comprehension of the texts and their cultural contexts. The Greek word Ἰωάννα (Ioánna) is significant as it relates to key figures in the New Testament. This name not only holds relevance in New Testament interpretation but also provides insights into ancient Greek and Judean culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: Ἰωάννα (Ioánna), pronounced [yo-AHN-nah].
• Etymology: Derived from Hebrew יוֹחָנָן (Yohanan), meaning “Yahweh is gracious.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, feminine.
• Declension: Follows the first declension pattern for Greek feminine nouns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Joanna: A female proper name referring to a prominent follower of Jesus mentioned in the Gospels, specifically in Luke.

Similar Words: Ἰωάνης (Iōánēs) [yo-AHN-ace] – A similar Greek name derived from the same Hebrew root, but used as the masculine form, commonly translated as “John.” While both names have the same root and meaning, they are distinct in gender and usage in the Biblical text.

Further Insights: Ἰωάννα is a transliteration of the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן (Yohanan). The Greek form, adapted to the phonetic and morphological conventions of the Greek language, follows a standard first declension for feminine nouns. Here is the declension chart for Ἰωάννα:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Highlights Ἰωάννα as a proper noun, identifying her as the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household, who supported Jesus’ ministry and witnessed His resurrection.
• Thayers: Lists Ἰωάννα as a Hebrew-origin feminine noun, meaning “Yahweh is gracious.” It points to her appearance in Luke’s Gospel.
• Vines: Discusses her role in the New Testament as one of the women who followed Jesus and helped support His ministry with her resources.
• LSJ: Emphasizes the transliteration and adaptation of Hebrew names into Greek, reflecting cultural and linguistic transitions.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Notes Ἰωάννα as a female given name that appears in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in contexts highlighting her role among Jesus’ followers.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 8:3 – “Joanna [Ἰωάννα] the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”
• Luke 24:10 – “It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna [Ἰωάννα], Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles.”

Classical Usage

Summary of Ἰωάννα (G2489: Ioánna)

Ἰωάννα (Ioánna) is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן (Yohanan), meaning “Yahweh is gracious.” It is significant in the New Testament for its association with Joanna, a follower of Jesus who played a crucial role in supporting His ministry and bearing witness to His resurrection. This name underscores the integration of Hebrew names into Greek culture, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of early Christian followers.

Did You Know?

• Joanna (Ἰωάννα) is one of the few women named in the Gospels who were close followers of Jesus.
• She was likely of high social status, given her marriage to Chuza, a steward of Herod Antipas.
• Joanna is recognized in some Christian traditions as a saint, celebrated for her faithful witness to the resurrection.

Understanding Ἰωάννα deepens our grasp of the diverse social dynamics present in the early Christian movement and highlights the pivotal role women played in the ministry of Jesus.