### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Aithíops**, represented by `{{G128}}`, is a term for an **Ethiopian**. Its origin is from words meaning "to scorch" and "the face." It appears **2 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, referring to a specific individual in the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical context for `{{G128}}` is the account of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. In this narrative, an angel directs Philip to a desert road where he encounters "a man of **Ethiopia** `{{G128}}`, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the **Ethiopians** `{{G128}}`" [[Acts 8:27]]. This man was a high-ranking official in charge of all the queen's treasure and had traveled to Jerusalem `{{G2419}}` for the purpose of worship `{{G4352}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define this important figure:
* `{{G2135}}` **eunoûchos** (eunuch): This term describes him as a "chamberlain (state-officer)" and is used repeatedly throughout the narrative to identify him ([[Acts 8:27]], 34, 36). It defines both his court position and his personal status.
* `{{G1413}}` **dynástēs** (of great authority): This word specifies his role as "a ruler or officer," highlighting his powerful position within the queen's court [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G2582}}` **Kandákē** (Candace): This is the name of the **queen** `{{G938}}` whom the man of Ethiopia served, grounding the account in a specific royal court [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G4352}}` **proskynéō** (worship): This word explains the Ethiopian's motivation for his journey, showing he was a devout man who had come to Jerusalem "to prostrate oneself in homage" [[Acts 8:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G128}}` is tied entirely to the narrative of the individual it describes.
* **Expansion of the Gospel:** The story of the Ethiopian eunuch is a pivotal example of the gospel moving beyond its Jewish origins to the "uttermost part of the earth," as commanded in [[Acts 1:8]]. His conversion represents the inclusion of Gentiles and those from distant lands.
* **Devout Seeker:** The man is presented as a pious individual who journeyed a great distance to **worship** `{{G4352}}` in Jerusalem `{{G2419}}`, demonstrating a heart prepared to receive the truth [[Acts 8:27]].
* **Overcoming Barriers:** As a **eunuch** `{{G2135}}`, his status may have presented barriers to full participation in certain Jewish religious rites. His immediate acceptance and baptism by Philip signifies that in the new covenant, such barriers are removed for those who believe.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G128}}` **Aithíops** has a narrow usage, it identifies a person of immense significance in the early church. The account of the **Ethiopian** eunuch is not merely a historical event but a profound theological statement about the universal nature of the gospel, which is open to all people, regardless of nationality, social standing, or physical condition.
TRV