Understanding Ἀρεοπαγίτης (Areopagites) Strong’s G698: The Elite Judges of Ancient Athens and Their Encounter with Paul’s Gospel

Pronunciation Guide: ah-reh-oh-pah-GEE-tace

Basic Definition

Strong’s G698: An Areopagite was a member of the Areopagus council, the supreme court of ancient Athens that met on Mars Hill. These were elite judges and civic leaders who held one of the most prestigious positions in classical Athens, serving as guardians of the city’s laws, religion, and moral standards.

Etymology and Morphology

• Noun (masculine)
• Derived from Ἄρειος πάγος (Areios pagos) meaning “Hill of Ares/Mars”
• Primary usage in historical and narrative contexts
• Found in classical Greek literature and New Testament

Ἀρεοπαγίτης Morphology:

• Ἀρεοπαγίτης (nominative singular) – an Areopagite
• Ἀρεοπαγίτου (genitive singular) – of an Areopagite
• Ἀρεοπαγίτῃ (dative singular) – to/for an Areopagite
• Ἀρεοπαγίτην (accusative singular) – an Areopagite
• Ἀρεοπαγῖται (nominative plural) – Areopagites

Origin & History

The term Ἀρεοπαγίτης has its roots in ancient Athenian history, deriving from the location where this prestigious council met – the Areopagus or “Mars Hill.” According to Athenian tradition, this hill was named after Ares (Mars) because it was where the god was tried by the other gods for the murder of Poseidon’s son. This mythological connection emphasized the council’s role in judging capital cases.

In classical Greek literature, we find detailed references to the Areopagites in works such as Aristotle’s “Constitution of Athens” and Plutarch’s “Life of Solon,” where they are portrayed as guardians of the laws and custodians of public morality. The position of Areopagite was considered a lifetime appointment and was typically filled by former archons (chief magistrates) who had served with distinction.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• A member of the Areopagus council in ancient Athens
• An elite judge serving on Athens’ supreme court
• A civic and religious leader responsible for maintaining moral standards

Ἀρεοπαγίτης Translation Options:

• “Member of the Areopagus” – Emphasizes institutional position
• “Areopagite” – Transliteration preferred when maintaining historical context
• “Mars Hill Council Member” – Helps modern readers understand the location
• “Athenian Supreme Court Judge” – Communicates function in contemporary terms

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, Ἀρεοπαγίτης appears in the context of Paul’s ministry in Athens, specifically in connection with his famous Mars Hill discourse. The term’s singular appearance is significant as it identifies Dionysius, highlighting his prestigious position in Athenian society and the impact of Paul’s message on the intellectual elite.

The conversion of an Areopagite was particularly noteworthy given their role as guardians of traditional religion and philosophy. This demonstrates the power of the Gospel to reach even those deeply embedded in pagan intellectual and religious systems.

• “Acts 17:34 – “However, some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite [Ἀρεοπαγίτης] and a woman named Damaris and others with them.” Member of the Areopagus

Cultural Insights

The Areopagites wielded tremendous influence in Athenian society, not just through their judicial powers but also through their role as moral and religious authorities. They were responsible for judging cases of homicide, impiety, and moral corruption, making them both feared and respected throughout Athens.

The conversion of Dionysius the Areopagite represents a significant breakthrough in early Christian ministry. For an Areopagite to accept the Gospel meant potentially risking his prestigious position and social standing, as Christianity challenged many of the fundamental beliefs and practices the Areopagus was charged with protecting.

Theological Significance

The conversion of an Areopagite demonstrates how the wisdom of God confounds the wisdom of this world. Here was a man trained in the highest forms of Greek philosophy and law, yet he recognized the truth of the Gospel message. This illustrates 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, showing that God calls not only the common people but also some of the wise and powerful.

The fact that an Areopagite would accept the message of a Jewish itinerant preacher shows the universal appeal and power of the Gospel. It reminds us that the Messiah Jesus is Lord of all – from the humblest servant to the highest judge. This conversion also foreshadowed how the Gospel would eventually reach and transform the Roman Empire’s elite.

Personal Application

When we consider the conversion of Dionysius the Areopagite, we’re reminded that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Just as this educated, powerful man humbled himself to receive the truth of the Gospel, we too must be willing to set aside our preconceptions and status to embrace God’s wisdom.

This account also encourages us not to shy away from sharing our faith with those in positions of influence or those who seem firmly established in opposing worldviews. The same Holy Spirit who reached an Areopagite can work through us to reach people in any social position or intellectual framework.

Related Words

• ἄρειος (areios) – “of Ares/Mars” – Shows the connection to Greek mythology and the location’s significance. See G697
• πάγος (pagos) – “hill/rock” – The physical location where the council met. See G3964
• σύγκλητος (synkletos) – “council member” – Another term for official council positions. See G4862
• κριτής (krites) – “judge” – Describes the judicial function of Areopagites. See G2923

Did you Know?

• The Areopagus council continued to function well into the Roman period, though with reduced powers, showing its enduring significance in Athenian society. Archaeological evidence suggests the council was still meeting in the 2nd century AD.
• Medieval tradition identifies Dionysius the Areopagite with Saint Denis, the patron saint of Paris, though modern scholars generally reject this connection. This association led to numerous writings being attributed to him in the early church.
• The term “Areopagite” has entered modern Greek vocabulary as a term for someone of high intellectual or judicial standing, showing its lasting impact on cultural understanding of wisdom and justice.

Remember This

The conversion of an Areopagite reminds us that God’s wisdom surpasses all human philosophy, and His truth can penetrate even the most established intellectual and religious systems.