Strong’s G3972: From Latin Paulus meaning “small” or “humble.” The apostle’s Roman cognomen, used throughout his ministry to Gentiles. Originally Saul (Σαῦλος), he’s known by Παῦλος after his first missionary journey. Represents both his Roman citizenship and missionary call to Gentiles.

U- Unveiling the Word

Παῦλος represents a pivotal transformation in early Christianity. The name change from Saul marks the shift from persecutor to apostle and symbolizes his mission to the Gentile world. The early church saw profound significance in this name change, viewing it as representing the gospel’s movement from Jewish to Gentile contexts. Today, it reminds us of God’s power to transform lives and cross cultural boundaries.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Παῦλος, Paulos, [PAW-los]
• Detailed pronunciation: POW-loss
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

• From Latin Paulus
• Related to Latin paulus (small, humble)
• Greek form of Roman cognomen
• No connection to Hebrew Saul

D – Defining Meanings

• Personal name Paul
• Small or humble one
• Roman cognomen

For compound words: Not applicable as this is a proper noun

Translation Options:

• Paul – Standard transliteration
• Paulus – Latin form
• Pablo/Paulo – Modern variants

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Σαῦλος [Saulos, SOW-los] – his Hebrew name
• παῦρος [pauros, POW-ros] – small (rare Greek word)
• ταπεινός [tapeinos, ta-pay-NOS] – humble

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Proper Noun
• Second Declension
• Masculine Gender
• Nominative: Παῦλος
• Genitive: Παύλου
• Dative: Παύλῳ
• Accusative: Παῦλον
• Cross-references: None in NT

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its significance as apostolic name. Thayer’s notes the timing of name change. LSJ connects it to Roman naming customs. Vine’s highlights theological significance of the change. Moulton and Milligan show contemporary usage in papyri.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paul [Παῦλος], an intelligent man. This man called for Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God.” (Acts 13:7)

Additional References:
Acts 13:9, Romans 1:1, 1 Corinthians 1:1, 2 Corinthians 1:1

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Παῦλος embodies the transformative power of the gospel. From persecutor to apostle, his name change represents how Christ can completely reshape a person’s identity and purpose. This continues to inspire believers that no one is beyond God’s redemptive reach.

D – Did You Know?

1. First appears at a pivotal moment meeting another Roman named Paul
2. May reflect humility as meaning “small”
3. Most commonly used personal name in NT letters

Strong’s G3972: From Latin Paulus meaning “small” or “humble.” The apostle’s Roman cognomen, used throughout his ministry to Gentiles. Originally Saul (Σαῦλος), he’s known by Παῦλος after his first missionary journey. Represents both his Roman citizenship and missionary call to Gentiles.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: #Apostle #PaulTheApostle #Conversion #MissionaryJourneys #GentileMission #BiblicalNames #RomanNames #ChurchHistory #Evangelism #NewTestament​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​