from βουλεύω; an adviser, i.e. (specially) a councillor or member of the Jewish Sanhedrin:--counsellor.
Transliteration:bouleutḗs
Pronunciation:bool-yoo-tace'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term βουλευτής (bouleutḗs), Strong's `{{G1010}}`, is derived from the verb βουλεύω (bouleuō - `{{G1011}}`), which signifies "to take counsel," "to deliberate," or "to resolve." Consequently, bouleutḗs fundamentally denotes an "adviser" or "counselor"—one who participates in deliberation and offers counsel. In its specialized New Testament usage, it refers specifically to a "councillor" or "member of a council," particularly the Jewish Sanhedrin. This designation implies a person of significant social standing, authority, and often, wisdom, entrusted with the responsibilities of governance and judicial decision-making within the community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term βουλευτής (`{{G1010}}`) appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, referring to a single individual: Joseph of Arimathea.
* In [[Mark 15:43]], Joseph is described as "a prominent member of the Council (βουλευτής), who himself was waiting for the kingdom of God." He is further characterized by his courage in approaching Pilate to request Jesus' body.
* Similarly, [[Luke 23:50]] identifies Joseph of Arimathea as "a member of the Council (βουλευτής), a good and righteous man." This passage adds that he had not consented to the Sanhedrin's decision and deed regarding Jesus.
In both contexts, the "Council" is understood to be the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and administrative body in Jerusalem. Joseph's designation as a bouleutḗs underscores his high social and religious standing within Jewish society. His actions—boldly requesting Jesus' body from Pilate and providing a tomb—are particularly significant given his position within the very body that had condemned Jesus. This highlights his quiet devotion and courage in the face of potential social and religious ostracism. His portrayal as "waiting for the kingdom of God" and being "good and righteous" distinguishes him from the majority of the Sanhedrin members who actively sought Jesus' crucifixion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of βουλευτής (`{{G1010}}`) is closely tied to the act of deliberation and planning:
* **βουλεύω (bouleuō - `{{G1011}}`)**: The verb from which bouleutḗs is derived, meaning "to deliberate," "to plan," "to decide." This foundational word emphasizes the active role of a bouleutḗs in the process of counsel.
* **βουλή (boulē - `{{G1012}}`)**: The related noun, meaning "counsel," "purpose," "plan," or "decision." This term often refers to the outcome or subject of deliberation, including the divine will or purpose (e.g., God's boulē in [[Acts 2:23]]).
* **Other terms for Jewish leadership:** While distinct, words like ἀρχιερεύς (archiereus - `{{G749}}`, chief priest), πρεσβύτερος (presbyteros - `{{G4245}}`, elder), and γραμματεύς (grammateus - `{{G1122}}`, scribe) collectively describe the various components of the Jewish leadership structure, of which the bouleutḗs was an integral part, specifically in the Sanhedrin.
* **Concepts of Wisdom and Authority:** A bouleutḗs by definition would be a figure of authority, expected to possess wisdom, discernment, and a capacity for sound judgment, qualities essential for advising and making decisions for the community.
### Theological Significance
The identification of Joseph of Arimathea as a βουλευτής (`{{G1010}}`) carries profound theological implications:
* **Divine Providence and Diverse Instruments:** Joseph's role demonstrates God's ability to use individuals from all societal strata, even those embedded within seemingly antagonistic structures, to fulfill His divine purposes. Despite the Sanhedrin's condemnation of Jesus, God had a "councillor" within its ranks who would ensure a proper burial, fulfilling prophetic undertones (cf. [[Isaiah 53:9]]).
* **Faith in Unlikely Places:** Joseph's status as a bouleutḗs highlights that not all members of the Jewish establishment were unified in their opposition to Jesus. His secret discipleship (as implied by [[John 19:38]], though not using `{{G1010}}` for his status, it describes his disposition) and eventual courageous act provide a powerful testimony to the quiet, yet profound, work of the Holy Spirit in individual hearts.
* **Courageous Obedience:** Joseph's decision to claim Jesus' body was an act of immense courage and faith, potentially jeopardizing his social standing and safety. It was an overt act of devotion that moved beyond passive waiting for the kingdom of God to active participation in honoring the crucified Christ.
* **Witness from Within:** Joseph serves as an internal witness from within the Jewish leadership that Jesus was not merely a common criminal, but one deserving of a respectful burial, even if his full understanding of Jesus' messianic identity was still unfolding. His actions provided a counter-narrative to the official stance of the Sanhedrin.
### Summary
The Greek term βουλευτής (`{{G1010}}`) precisely defines an "adviser" or, more specifically in the New Testament, a "councillor" or "member of the Jewish Sanhedrin." Its singular application to Joseph of Arimathea in [[Mark 15:43]] and [[Luke 23:50]] is crucial. This designation underscores Joseph's significant social standing and his courageous act of providing a burial for Jesus, an act that stood in stark contrast to the Sanhedrin's official condemnation. The word highlights the presence of quiet, righteous individuals even within institutions that might oppose God's will, underscoring themes of divine providence, personal conviction, and the diverse ways God works through His people. Rooted in βουλεύω (`{{G1011}}`), it signifies one who deliberates and advises, reflecting a position of authority and wisdom, ultimately serving God's sovereign plan.
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