Brief Overview of Σιλουανός (Strong’s G4610: Silouanos)

Strong’s G4610: The full Latin form (Silvanus) of the name contracted as Silas. A prominent early Christian leader mentioned in Paul’s letters and 1 Peter, who served as both missionary companion and letter bearer. His Latin name suggests Roman citizenship and reflects the multicultural nature of early Christianity.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σιλουανός represents both official and personal aspects of this early church leader’s identity. First appearing in 2 Corinthians 1:19, it shows his role in Paul’s ministry and letter writing. Early church tradition saw his use of both Greek and Latin names as symbolic of Christianity’s universal scope. Today, he exemplifies how cultural adaptability can serve gospel purposes.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σιλουανός, Silouanos, see-lou-AN-os
• Detailed pronunciation: stress on third syllable: ‘see’ as in see, ‘lou’ as in loop, ‘AN’ as in an, ‘os’ as in dose
• Part of Speech: Proper Noun

Etymology:

• Latin name Silvanus
• From Latin silva (forest)
• Hellenized form with Greek ending -ος

D – Defining Meanings

• Formal name Silvanus
• Latin form of Silas
• Name indicating Roman citizenship

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

Translation Options:

• “Silvanus” – Formal Latin form
• “Silas” – Common Greek form
• “Silvanus (Silas)” – Combined reference

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Σιλᾶς (Silas, SEE-las) – contracted form See G4609
• Παῦλος (Paulos, POW-los) – Paul See G3972
• Τιμόθεος (Timotheos, tee-MO-the-os) – Timothy See G5095

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Noun Features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular only
• Gender: Masculine
• Declension: 2nd

Examples:
Nominative: Σιλουανός
Genitive: Σιλουανοῦ
Dative: Σιλουανῷ
Accusative: Σιλουανόν

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG identifies him with Silas of Acts. Thayer’s notes his role as co-writer of letters. LSJ provides evidence of similar name patterns. Vine’s emphasizes the relationship between both forms. Strong’s connects him to missionary work. Moulton-Milligan documents similar Roman name usage.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.” 2 Corinthians 1:19

Additional References:
1 Thessalonians 1:1, 2 Thessalonians 1:1, 1 Peter 5:12

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σιλουανός exemplifies faithful service in building Christ’s church across cultural boundaries. His dual identity enabled him to bridge different communities while maintaining unity in Christ. His life reminds us that cultural adaptability can serve gospel purposes while maintaining integrity in mission.

D – Did You Know?

1. The name Silvanus suggests possible connection to Roman forestry administration.
2. He is the only person explicitly named as serving both Paul and Peter.
3. Early traditions credit him with helping compose multiple New Testament letters.

Strong’s G4610: The full Latin form (Silvanus) of the name contracted as Silas. A prominent early Christian leader mentioned in Paul’s letters and 1 Peter, who served as both missionary companion and letter bearer. His Latin name suggests Roman citizenship and reflects the multicultural nature of early Christianity.

Part of speech: Proper Noun

Tags: Silvanus, Silas, Paul’s companions, Peter’s associates, letter bearers, missionaries, Roman citizens, early church, epistles, multicultural ministry, apostolic era, church leadership​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​