Brief Overview of Ἀρίσταρχος (G708: Aristarchus)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Aristarchus

Root Words:

• Ἀρίσταρχος (Aristarchus): The name Ἀρίσταρχος is a Greek proper noun. It is composed of the elements ἄριστος (áristos, “best”) and ἀρχός (archós, “ruler” or “chief”). Thus, the name can be interpreted as “best ruler” or “best leader.”

Primary Meanings:

• Personal Name: Aristarchus is a personal name and refers to several individuals in the New Testament.
• Companion of Paul: Notably, Aristarchus is a companion of the Apostle Paul, mentioned in the New Testament as a fellow worker in the ministry.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG identifies Ἀρίσταρχος as a proper name used in the New Testament. It particularly refers to a companion of Paul who was involved in the early Christian mission. BDAG notes Aristarchus’ involvement in key events, such as his imprisonment with Paul and his role as a fellow laborer in the gospel.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon highlights Ἀρίσταρχος as a Christian from Thessalonica who accompanied Paul. Thayer’s emphasizes his role in Paul’s ministry and his significance in the early church.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary provides details on Ἀρίσταρχος as a personal name, noting its use for a disciple and helper of Paul. Vines underscores Aristarchus’ dedication and contribution to Paul’s missions.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon describes Ἀρίσταρχος primarily as a name of individuals mentioned in the New Testament. It confirms Aristarchus as a companion of Paul, involved in significant events related to early Christian missions.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies Ἀρίσταρχος as “Aristarchus,” noting his role as a fellow worker with Paul, highlighting his importance in early Christian circles.

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Bible Verses:

• Acts 19:29 (KJV): “And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul’s companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.”
• This verse shows Aristarchus as a companion of Paul during a time of trouble in Ephesus.
• Acts 20:4 (KJV): “And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.”
• This verse lists Aristarchus as one of Paul’s companions traveling to Asia.
• Colossians 4:10 (KJV): “Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister’s son to Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him);”
• Here, Aristarchus is mentioned as a fellow prisoner with Paul, emphasizing his close association with him.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, Ἀρίσταρχος appears primarily as a personal name rather than a term with significant literary or philosophical implications. It is noted in contexts involving historical or mythological figures, but in early Christian writings, its importance is more pronounced due to its association with Paul.

4. Summary:

The term Ἀρίσταρχος (G708: Aristarchus) is a proper noun referring to a notable figure in the New Testament. Aristarchus, whose name means “best ruler,” is recognized for his role as a companion and fellow worker with the Apostle Paul. BDAG and other lexicons affirm his significance in early Christian missions, with key mentions in Acts and Colossians highlighting his involvement and dedication. Classic Greek literature does not provide extensive details on Aristarchus outside the biblical context, but his role in early Christianity remains notable for his contributions alongside Paul.