Pronunciation Guide: ah-KOO-lahs

Basic Definition

Strong’s G207: Ἀκύλας is the Greek form of the Latin name Aquila, meaning “eagle.” In the New Testament, he was a Jewish Christian and tentmaker who, along with his wife Priscilla, became a significant figure in early church ministry and discipleship. They were close associates of Paul and instrumental in teaching and mentoring other believers.

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Etymology and Morphology

• Proper noun (masculine)
• Latin origin: Aquila
• Used primarily in narrative sections of Acts and in Paul’s epistles
• Personal name appearing in both religious and secular contexts

Ἀκύλας Morphology:

• Ἀκύλας (nominative singular) – Aquila (as subject)
• Ἀκύλαν (accusative singular) – Aquila (as object)
• Ἀκύλᾳ (dative singular) – to/with Aquila

Origin & History

The name Aquila has a rich history in both Roman and Jewish contexts. In Roman culture, Aquila (“eagle”) was associated with strength, vision, and nobility. The eagle was a significant symbol in Roman military standards and imperial imagery.

In Jewish tradition, the eagle (נֶשֶׁר, nesher) symbolized divine protection and renewal, as seen in passages like Exodus 19:4 and Deuteronomy 32:11. This dual cultural resonance made it a fitting name for a Jewish man living in the Roman world.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A Jewish Christian convert who became a key figure in early church ministry
• A skilled tentmaker and businessman
• A mentor and teacher in the early church

Ἀκύλας Translation Options:

• Aquila – Direct transliteration, most common in English translations
• Eagle – Literal meaning of the Latin name, though not used in translations
• Akulas – Grecized form, occasionally used in academic contexts

Biblical Usage

Ἀκύλας is first introduced in Acts 18:2, where we learn he and his wife Priscilla had recently arrived in Corinth from Rome due to Claudius’s edict expelling Jews. Their shared profession as tentmakers with Paul led to a deep partnership in ministry.

The couple appears in multiple New Testament passages, often mentioned together, highlighting their unified ministry approach. Their willingness to risk their lives for Paul (Romans 16:4) demonstrates their deep commitment to the gospel.

• “And he found a Jew named Aquila [Ἀκύλας], a native of Pontus, having recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla.” Acts 18:2
• “Greet Aquila [Ἀκύλας] and Prisca, who work with me in Messiah Jesus.” Romans 16:3
• “Aquila [Ἀκύλας] and Prisca greet you heartily in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 16:19
• “Greet Prisca and Aquila [Ἀκύλας].” 2 Timothy 4:19

Cultural Insights

In first-century Roman society, tentmaking was a respected trade requiring skill in leatherworking and design. As a Jewish artisan, Aquila would have learned this trade as part of the rabbinical tradition of combining Torah study with practical occupation. This background likely facilitated deep discussions with Paul about Scripture while they worked together.

The fact that Aquila and Priscilla hosted a house church (1 Corinthians 16:19) suggests they were people of means, as their home was large enough to accommodate gatherings. This practice of house churches was crucial in early Christian development, providing intimate settings for teaching and fellowship.

Theological Significance

Aquila’s life exemplifies several key theological themes: the unity of Jewish and Gentile believers in Messiah, the importance of discipleship, and the role of marketplace ministry. His partnership with Paul demonstrates how the early church bridged cultural divides through shared faith in Jesus.

The mention of both Aquila and Priscilla in leadership roles also illustrates the New Testament’s affirmation of both men and women serving together in ministry. Their example challenges modern believers to consider how marriages can be partnerships in both life and ministry.

Personal Application

Aquila’s story encourages believers to see their professional skills and workplace as potential ministry platforms. Just as he used his tentmaking business to support ministry and create opportunities for discipleship, we too can view our careers as divine appointments for kingdom impact.

His willingness to relocate multiple times for the sake of the gospel challenges us to hold our plans loosely and remain open to God’s leading, even when it means significant life changes.

Related Words

• σκηνοποιός (skenopoios, “tentmaker”) – Describes Aquila’s profession, highlighting the connection between everyday work and ministry. See G4635
• συνεργός (sunergos, “fellow worker”) – Used to describe Aquila’s relationship with Paul in ministry. See G4904
• διδάσκαλος (didaskalos, “teacher”) – Reflects Aquila’s role in teaching Apollo. See G1320

Did you Know?

• Archaeological evidence from ancient Corinth has uncovered remains of leather-working shops similar to what Aquila’s tentmaking business might have looked like, including tools and workplace layouts that give us insights into his daily work environment.
• The name Aquila gained renewed significance in Jewish history when Aquila of Sinope (c. 130 CE) created a highly literal Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, showing the ongoing importance of the name in Jewish-Greek cultural exchange.
• Modern biblical archaeology has uncovered several house church sites in Rome and Corinth that match the description of the type of home Aquila and Priscilla would have used for church gatherings, typically featuring a large central courtyard or modified atrium.

Remember This

Aquila stands as a timeless example of how ordinary work, when dedicated to God’s purposes, can become an extraordinary platform for ministry and discipleship.