Brief Overview of Πρίσκα (Strong’s G4251: Priska)

Strong’s G4251: A feminine proper noun denoting Prisca, also known as Priscilla, a prominent early Christian leader alongside her husband Aquila. Known for her teaching ministry, particularly in Ephesus and Rome, she exemplified female leadership in the early church and was a close associate of Paul.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πρίσκα represents a significant figure in early Christian leadership and teaching ministry. The formal version of “Priscilla,” this name appears in contexts highlighting her role in theological instruction (Acts 18:26) and church hosting. She and her husband Aquila were tentmakers like Paul, demonstrating the integration of professional work with ministry. Early church traditions emphasized her role in teaching and church leadership. Today, Πρίσκα continues to inspire discussions about women’s roles in ministry and the importance of couple-based ministry teams.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Πρίσκα, Priska, PRIS-kah
• Detailed Pronunciation: PRIS (as in ‘prism’) + kah (as in ‘car’)
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun (feminine)

Etymology:

• Latin name Prisca meaning “ancient”
• Diminutive form: Priscilla
• One of several Latin names adopted into Greek in the New Testament

D – Defining Meanings

• Ancient (literal meaning)
• Venerable
• Classical

For compound words:
Not a compound word, but represents a Latinized Greek form of a Roman name.

Translation Options:

1. Prisca – Formal version of the name
2. Priscilla – Diminutive form
3. Untranslated: Priska – Transliteration

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Πρίσκιλλα (Priscilla) [pris-KILL-ah] – diminutive form of same name
• Πρέσβυς (presbus) [PRES-bus] – similar root meaning “elder”
• See G4251

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a proper noun:

• Case: Various forms
• Nominative: Πρίσκα
• Genitive: Πρίσκας
• Dative: Πρίσκᾳ
• Accusative: Πρίσκαν
• Number: Singular only
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: First declension

Cross-references:

• Alternative form: Πρίσκιλλα (Priscilla)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG notes her prominence in early Christianity. Thayer’s emphasizes her role alongside Aquila. LSJ discusses the Latin origin of the name. Vine’s highlights her teaching ministry. Moulton and Milligan cite evidence of the name’s use in Roman society.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“Greet [Πρίσκα] Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.” 2 Timothy 4:19

Additional References:
Acts 18:2, Acts 18:18, Acts 18:26, Romans 16:3, 1 Corinthians 16:19

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πρίσκα exemplifies how the good news of King Jesus breaks down social barriers and empowers all believers for ministry. Her life proclaims that in Christ, women can be teachers, leaders, and full partners in ministry. She shows us that the gospel creates new communities where gifts are recognized regardless of gender, and where couples can serve together in advancing God’s kingdom.

D – Did You Know?

1. The name alternates between Prisca and Priscilla in ancient manuscripts, suggesting both forms were used.
2. Early church tradition suggests she and Aquila may have been martyred together.
3. Archaeological evidence indicates possible locations of their house churches in Rome and Ephesus.

Strong’s G4251: A feminine proper noun denoting Prisca, also known as Priscilla, a prominent early Christian leader alongside her husband Aquila. Known for her teaching ministry, particularly in Ephesus and Rome, she exemplified female leadership in the early church and was a close associate of Paul.

Part of speech: Proper Noun (feminine)

Tags: women in ministry, early church, church leadership, tentmaking, house churches, teaching ministry, couples in ministry, Paul’s companions, Roman Christians, biblical characters, biblical keywords​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​