### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word δεξιολάβος (dexiolábos, `{{G1187}}`) is a compound noun formed from δεξιός (dexios, `{{G1188}}`), meaning "right" or "right hand," and λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`), meaning "to take," "to grasp," or "to seize." Etymologically, it suggests "one who takes with the right hand." In a military context, this refers specifically to a soldier armed with a weapon held in the right hand, typically a spear, javelin, or dart. Thus, its primary meaning denotes a "spearman," "javelin-thrower," or a "light-armed soldier" equipped for throwing or thrusting. The term highlights a specific type of infantryman, distinct from heavy infantry or cavalry, often deployed for skirmishing or providing ranged support. It is a relatively rare word in ancient Greek literature, appearing only once in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of δεξιολάβος in the New Testament is found in [[Acts 23:23]]. This verse describes the elaborate escort arranged by the Roman tribune Claudius Lysias to ensure the safe passage of the Apostle Paul from Jerusalem to Caesarea, where he was to be brought before Governor Felix. The text reads: "And he called to him two of the centurions and said, 'Prepare two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, with seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen (δεξιολάβους), at the third hour of the night.'"
The context is critical: Paul's life was under severe threat from a Jewish plot to assassinate him. Claudius Lysias, upon learning of this conspiracy, took extraordinary measures to protect a Roman citizen. The deployment of "two hundred soldiers," "seventy horsemen," and "two hundred spearmen" (a total of 470 men) underscores the gravity of the perceived threat and the Roman commitment to maintaining order and protecting its citizens. The "spearmen" would have been light-armed infantry, potentially forming the vanguard or rearguard, or flanking the main body of soldiers and cavalry. Their presence would have provided an additional layer of security, capable of engaging threats at a distance with their spears or javelins, thereby deterring potential ambushers and ensuring Paul's secure transfer. This detailed enumeration of forces highlights the meticulousness of Roman military operations and the significant resources dedicated to Paul's safety.
### Related Words & Concepts
The word δεξιολάβος is intrinsically linked to its constituent parts: δεξιός (dexios, `{{G1188}}`), the right hand, often symbolizing strength, power, authority, or favor in biblical thought (e.g., the right hand of God, the position of honor); and λαμβάνω (lambanō, `{{G2983}}`), to take or receive, a verb with a broad semantic range.
Beyond its etymological roots, δεξιολάβος is related to broader concepts of Roman military organization and the exercise of imperial authority in the New Testament. Other terms like στρατιώτης (stratiōtēs, `{{G4757}}`, soldier), ἑκατοντάρχης (hekatontarchēs, `{{G1543}}`, centurion), and σπεκουλάτωρ (spekoulatōr, `{{G4688}}`, executioner/guardsman) illuminate the various roles within the Roman army. The presence of such a large, specialized escort for Paul in [[Acts 23:23]] also connects to the theme of divine providence, as God uses human institutions and their personnel to achieve His purposes, even when those institutions are pagan. The Roman military, though often an instrument of oppression, here serves as an unexpected means of protection for God's chosen messenger.
### Theological Significance
While δεξιολάβος itself is a technical military term with no inherent theological meaning, its single biblical occurrence in [[Acts 23:23]] carries significant theological implications when viewed through the lens of divine providence. The detailed account of Paul's escort, including the "spearmen," serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereign care and protection over His servants.
1. **Divine Preservation:** God orchestrates circumstances, even utilizing the secular arm of the Roman Empire, to preserve Paul's life. The formidable escort, including the δεξιολάβοι, was a direct answer to the threat against Paul, ensuring his survival so that he could continue his mission and eventually reach Rome. This demonstrates that God's purposes for His servants will not be thwarted by human malice.
2. **God's Use of Secular Authority:** The meticulousness of the Roman military in protecting a Roman citizen, even one facing internal religious strife, highlights how God can use human systems, even those unaware of His will, to accomplish His divine plan. The Roman desire for order and justice inadvertently served God's higher purpose.
3. **Progression of the Gospel:** Paul's journey to Caesarea, secured by this escort, was a crucial step in his divinely appointed path to testify about Christ in Rome ([[Acts 23:11]]). The "spearmen" were part of the means by which this journey was made possible, contributing to the unfolding narrative of the Gospel's expansion.
### Summary
The Greek word δεξιολάβος (dexiolábos, `{{G1187}}`) precisely describes a "spearman" or "light-armed soldier," derived from the concept of "taking with the right hand," referring to the handling of a spear or javelin. Its sole appearance in the New Testament in [[Acts 23:23]] is highly significant, detailing the formidable Roman military escort that protected the Apostle Paul from a murderous plot. The inclusion of "two hundred spearmen" underscores the Roman tribune's commitment to Paul's safety and the severity of the threat. Theologically, this detailed account serves as a powerful illustration of God's providential care, demonstrating His use of human institutions and their personnel, even a pagan military force, to protect His servant and advance the spread of the Gospel.
TRV