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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the nuanced meanings and cultural contexts that shape New Testament texts. The Greek word Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) is particularly significant because it refers to a person in the early Christian community who is mentioned in Paul’s Epistle to the Romans. Examining this word helps us better understand the social networks and personal relationships that were vital in the spread of early Christianity and in the New Testament’s narrative framework.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn), pronounced [hay-ro-dee’-on].
- Etymology: Derived from Ἡρῴδης (Hērōdēs), which means “Heroic” or “Son of a Hero,” with the diminutive suffix -ιων (-iōn), suggesting a “little Herod” or “belonging to Herod.”
- Part of Speech: Proper noun (masculine singular), following the third declension pattern for Greek nouns.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Herodion: A Christian mentioned by Paul in Romans 16:11, possibly a relative or someone associated with the household of Herod.
Similar Words: Ἡρῴδης (Hērōdēs), pronounced [hay-ROH-dace], is a name associated with the Herodian dynasty and rulers of Judea. While Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) could imply a connection to the Herodian family or a “little Herod,” it primarily identifies a specific individual mentioned by Paul in the New Testament, differing in usage and meaning from Ἡρῴδης.
Further Insights: Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) is a third-declension noun, which can be seen in its forms throughout the New Testament. Below is the declension table for Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn):
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) |
| Genitive | Ἡρῳδίωνος (Hērōdíōnos) |
| Dative | Ἡρῳδίωνι (Hērōdíōni) |
| Accusative | Ἡρῳδίωνα (Hērōdíōna) |
| Vocative | Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) |
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The term Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) is identified as a proper noun referring to a Christian greeted by Paul in Romans 16:11. The greeting may suggest kinship or close association, as Paul calls him “my kinsman.”
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Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) as a Jewish Christian possibly connected to the household of Herod. His mention in Paul’s greetings indicates his significance within the early Christian community.
Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary provides a brief note on Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn), emphasizing his role as a fellow worker or associate of Paul in the context of Romans 16:11.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon briefly identifies Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) as a proper noun, with limited additional information beyond its Biblical context.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) as G2267, describing him as a Christian mentioned by Paul in the New Testament, potentially signifying a close relationship or shared heritage with Paul.
Related Scripture References
- Romans 16:11: “Greet Herodion [Ἡρῳδίωνα], my kinsman. Greet those of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Not Available | Not Available | The name Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) does not appear in classical Greek literature. |
| Septuagint | Not found | |
| Septuagint | Not found | |
| Septuagint | Not found |
Summary of Ἡρῳδίων (G2267: Hērōdíōn)
The Greek word Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) refers to a Christian mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Romans, where he addresses him as “my kinsman,” suggesting either a familial relationship or a bond of shared heritage. While little is known about Herodion beyond this brief mention, his inclusion in Paul’s greetings highlights the interconnected network of early Christians and the diverse backgrounds from which they came. Understanding Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) within this context provides a glimpse into the communal and familial dynamics that characterized the early Christian movement.
Did You Know?
- The name Herodion may imply a connection to the Herodian family, which was known for its complex political and social influence during the Second Temple period.
- Paul’s reference to Herodion as “my kinsman” may indicate that Herodion was a fellow Jew or had some close association with Paul, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of early Christian believers.
- The Herodian dynasty, from which the name Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn) is derived, played a crucial role in the socio-political landscape of Judea during the Roman Empire.
By studying Ἡρῳδίων (Hērōdíōn), we gain insight into the early Christian community’s diverse and interconnected nature, showcasing the blend of Jewish heritage and Greco-Roman culture that shaped its development.
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