Pronunciation Guide: ay-NEH-as

Basic Definition

Strong’s G132: Αἰνέας is a masculine proper name of Greek origin meaning “praised one” or “of praise.” This name appears in the New Testament specifically in reference to a paralyzed man in Lydda who was healed by Peter after being bedridden for eight years.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Proper noun (masculine)
• Greek origin, possibly derived from αἶνος (ainos, “praise”)
• Found only in narrative sections of Acts
• Personal name with theological significance in its healing context

Αἰνέας Morphology:

• Αἰνέας (nominative singular) – Aeneas/Aineas (subject form)
• Αἰνέαν (accusative singular) – Aeneas/Aineas (object form)

Origin & History

The name Αἰνέας has a rich history in classical Greek culture, most famously associated with the legendary Trojan hero Aeneas, son of Anchises and Aphrodite, whose story was immortalized in Virgil’s “Aeneid.” The name carries connotations of nobility and divine favor in classical literature.

In Greek mythology, as recorded by Homer in the “Iliad,” Aeneas was a prominent warrior blessed by the gods. This classical background adds depth to the Biblical usage, where the name appears in a context of divine intervention and healing.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A proper name signifying “praised one”
• A personal identifier with potential theological significance
• A name carrying cultural weight in both Greek and Roman traditions

Αἰνέας Translation Options:

• Aeneas – Traditional English rendering maintaining classical connections
• Aineas – Alternative transliteration emphasizing Greek pronunciation
• Eneas – Less common variant found in some translations

Biblical Usage

Αἰνέας appears exclusively in Acts 9:33-34, where Luke records Peter’s healing ministry in Lydda. The account is significant as one of several healing miracles that demonstrated the apostles’ authority and the power of the risen Messiah working through them. The healing of Αἰνέας parallels similar miraculous healings performed by Jesus, particularly of paralytics.

• “There he found a man named Αἰνέας (Aeneas), who had been bedridden for eight years, for he was paralyzed.” Acts 9:33

Cultural Insights

In the Greco-Roman world, physical paralysis often meant complete dependence on others and social marginalization. The healing of Αἰνέας would have had profound social implications beyond the physical miracle. His name, connected to the legendary Aeneas who carried his paralyzed father from burning Troy, creates an interesting parallel with this biblical Αἰνέας who was himself paralyzed but raised to new life through the power of the Messiah.

Theological Significance

The healing of Αἰνέας demonstrates the continuation of Jesus’ ministry through His apostles. Peter’s words, “Jesus Christ heals you,” explicitly attribute the miracle to the Messiah’s power, not his own. This healing event led many in Lydda and Sharon to turn to the Lord, showing how individual transformation can catalyze community-wide spiritual awakening.

The eight-year duration of Αἰνέας’s condition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God’s healing power – no condition is too chronic or severe for Divine intervention. This mirrors the theological truth that spiritual paralysis, no matter how long-standing, can be instantly healed through faith in the Messiah.

Personal Application

When we encounter the story of Αἰνέας, we’re reminded that God’s healing power knows no bounds – whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Just as Αἰνέας’s healing led to widespread belief in the Lord, our personal encounters with God’s transformative power can impact entire communities. This challenges us to both believe in God’s power to heal and to share our testimonies of His work in our lives.

Related Words

• θεραπεύω (therapeuo) – “to heal, cure” See G2323
• ἰάομαι (iaomai) – “to heal, make whole” See G2390
• παράλυτος (paralutos) – “paralytic, paralyzed” See G3885
• κλίνη (kline) – “bed, couch” See G2825

Did you Know?

• The name Αἰνέας appears in various forms throughout ancient Greek literature, including Homer’s works, suggesting its widespread use and cultural significance.
• The location of Αἰνέας’s healing, Lydda (modern-day Lod), was a significant Jewish center and later became an important early Christian community.
• The healing account of Αἰνέας shares structural similarities with Jesus’ healing of the paralytic in Mark 2:11, including the command to “rise and make your bed.”

Remember This

Αἰνέας’s transformation from an eight-year paralytic to a walking testimony of God’s power reminds us that no situation is beyond the reach of Divine healing and restoration.