Pronunciation Guide: al-ex’-an-dros

Basic Definition

Strong’s G223: Ἀλέξανδρος (Alexandros) is a masculine proper name meaning “defender of men” or “protector of mankind.” The name combines two Greek elements: ἀλέξω (alexō, “to defend, help”) and ἀνήρ (anēr, “man”). In the New Testament, it appears as the name of several distinct individuals, including the son of Simon of Cyrene.

Etymology and Morphology

• Proper noun (masculine)
• Compound word from ἀλέξω (defend) + ἀνήρ (man)
• Primary usage in narrative sections
• Hellenistic Greek origin
• Common in both Jewish and Gentile contexts

Ἀλέξανδρος Morphology:

• Ἀλέξανδρος (nominative singular) – Alexander
• Ἀλεξάνδρου (genitive singular) – of Alexander
• Ἀλεξάνδρῳ (dative singular) – to/for Alexander
• Ἀλέξανδρον (accusative singular) – Alexander (as object)

Origin & History

The name Ἀλέξανδρος gained tremendous prominence through Alexander the Great (356-323 BCE), whose conquests spread Hellenistic culture throughout the ancient world. In classical Greek literature, Herodotus mentions several notable Alexanders in his “Histories,” including Alexander I of Macedon (Book 8.136-144).

The name’s etymology reflects ancient Greek ideals of masculine virtue, combining the concept of protection with leadership. Its widespread adoption across various cultures demonstrates the profound influence of Hellenistic civilization on the ancient Mediterranean world.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• Defender/protector of men
• One who wards off enemies from people
• Helper of mankind

Ἀλέξανδρος Translation Options:

• Alexander – Most common English rendering, preserving historical connection
• Defender – Emphasizing the protective meaning
• Protector – Highlighting the guardian aspect
• Alexanders – When used in plural form for multiple individuals

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, Ἀλέξανδρος appears in several distinct contexts, referring to different individuals. The most poignant mention is in Mark 15:21, where Alexander is named as one of the sons of Simon of Cyrene, who carried the Messiah’s cross. This inclusion of his name suggests he was known to the early Christian community.

• “[Simon] the father of Alexander [Ἀλέξανδρος] and Rufus” Mark 15:21
• “Alexander [Ἀλέξανδρος] the coppersmith did me much harm” 2 Timothy 4:14
• “Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander [Ἀλέξανδρος]” 1 Timothy 1:20
• “And Alexander [Ἀλέξανδρος] motioned with his hand” Acts 19:33

Cultural Insights

The name Ἀλέξανδρος bridges multiple cultural worlds in the first century CE. Its presence in Jewish families (like Alexander the Alabarch of Alexandria) demonstrates the complex interaction between Jewish and Hellenistic culture during the Second Temple period. The name’s popularity reflects the ongoing influence of Alexander the Great’s legacy in shaping the cultural landscape of the New Testament era.

The inclusion of Alexander as Simon of Cyrene’s son suggests the family’s integration into the early Christian community, as Mark’s gospel assumes his readers would recognize these names. This detail provides a fascinating glimpse into the multicultural nature of early Christianity.

Theological Significance

The various appearances of individuals named Ἀλέξανδρος in Scripture present a spectrum of responses to the gospel message. From the likely positive association of Simon of Cyrene’s son to the negative example of Alexander the coppersmith, these accounts demonstrate that salvation and faith are personal choices, not inherited through name or culture.

The name’s meaning – “defender of men” – carries a certain irony in light of the Messiah’s role as the true protector and savior of humanity. While Alexander the Great sought to defend and unite humanity through military conquest, our Messiah Jesus establishes His kingdom through sacrificial love and spiritual transformation.

Personal Application

When we encounter various individuals named Alexander in Scripture, we’re reminded that God knows each person by name and that our individual responses to Him matter more than our cultural or historical associations. Just as Alexander was a common name representing diverse individuals with different relationships to the faith, we too must make our own personal decision about how we will respond to the Messiah’s call.

Related Words

• σώζω (sōzō) – to save, deliver, protect – Similar protective concept but with spiritual salvation emphasis See G4982
• ῥύομαι (rhuomai) – to rescue, deliver – Related to protection from danger See G4506
• φυλάσσω (phylassō) – to guard, protect – Shares the protective aspect See G5442
• βοηθός (boēthos) – helper, defender – Similar helping aspect See G998

Did you Know?

• The name Alexander became so popular after Alexander the Great that it spread beyond Greek culture into Jewish, Egyptian, and other Middle Eastern societies, showing the extensive influence of Hellenization.
• In ancient Greek warfare, the role of “defender of men” was often associated with shield-bearers who protected other soldiers, making the name particularly meaningful in military contexts.
• The name Ἀλέξανδρος continues to be popular in modern Greek culture, often shortened to “Αλέξης” (Alexis), demonstrating its enduring legacy across millennia.

Remember This

Ἀλέξανδρος reminds us that while earthly defenders may fail, our ultimate protection comes from the One who laid down His life to defend us from eternal separation from God.