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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for grasping the depth of Biblical texts, especially when studying the New Testament. The word Κύπριος (Kyprios) is particularly significant as it refers to someone from the island of Cyprus. This word appears in Acts 4:36 in connection with Barnabas, who is described as a “Cyprian by birth.” The term provides insights into the geographical and cultural contexts of the New Testament, highlighting the diversity within the early Christian community and the spread of Christianity beyond Judea. By studying Κύπριος, we gain a better understanding of the identities and backgrounds of the individuals involved in the early Church.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: Κύπριος (Kyprios) [KY-pri-os]
Etymology: The word Κύπριος comes from the name Κύπρος (Kypros), which is the Greek name for the island of Cyprus. The suffix “-ιος” indicates a relation or belonging to a place. Thus, Κύπριος means “a Cypriot” or “one from Cyprus.”

Part of Speech: Noun (masculine). Κύπριος functions as a substantive noun, referring to a person who is from Cyprus. The word is declined according to the rules of the second declension for masculine nouns in Greek.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: A Native or Inhabitant of Cyprus
The primary meaning of Κύπριος is “a Cypriot” or “a native of Cyprus.” This meaning is used to describe someone who originates from Cyprus, an important location in the early Christian narrative, as seen with Barnabas in Acts 4:36.

Exploring Similar Words

Κύπρος (Kypros) [KY-pros]: This word is the root from which Κύπριος is derived and refers specifically to the island of Cyprus. Unlike Κύπριος, it denotes the geographical location rather than the people.

Ἀλεξανδρεύς (Alexandreus) [a-leks-an-DREYS]: Refers to an “Alexandrian,” or someone from Alexandria. While similar in indicating geographical origin, it applies to a different city, showcasing the Greek pattern of forming demonyms.

Ἰουδαῖος (Ioudaios) [ee-oo-DAY-os]: Refers to a “Jew” or “Judean.” Although it also indicates geographical origin, it specifically relates to ethnic and religious identity as well.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: Κύπριος is a masculine noun of the second declension. It can be singular or plural, and its endings change depending on the case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).
• Declension:

For more information on Greek declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Κύπριος is consistently defined across various lexicons as a native or inhabitant of Cyprus. In the New Testament, it identifies Barnabas, a significant figure in early Christianity, who is labeled as a Cypriot. Lexicons highlight the importance of Cyprus as a key location for the spread of early Christianity, as it was a cultural crossroads in the Mediterranean. The word’s usage underscores the diversity of the early Christian community, which included members from various regions and backgrounds, reflecting the universality of the Gospel message. The theological implications of Κύπριος are tied to the broader narrative of inclusion and the expansion of the Christian mission.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Acts 4:36: “Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus [Κύπριος], whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means ‘son of encouragement’).”
Acts 11:20: “Some of them, however, men from Cyprus [Κύπριος] and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The word Κύπριος (Kyprios) provides a glimpse into the diverse makeup of the early Christian church and its geographical reach. It highlights Cyprus as a significant hub for early Christian missions and demonstrates how the Gospel was not confined to Judea but spread to various regions and people. Understanding this term helps readers appreciate the cultural and ethnic inclusivity of early Christianity and the dynamics of its spread throughout the Roman Empire.

Did You Know?

• Did you know? Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean and played a pivotal role in the early Christian missionary journeys, especially for Paul and Barnabas.
• Did you know? Barnabas, a Cypriot, was a key figure in early Christianity, known for his role in welcoming Paul into the apostolic circle and for his missionary work.
• Did you know? The word Κύπριος is not only significant in the New Testament but also appears in classical Greek literature, reflecting Cyprus’s long-standing influence in the Mediterranean world.