### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Drusilla**, represented by `{{G1409}}`, is a proper name for a specific individual. It is defined as a feminine diminutive of Drusus, a Roman name, and identifies **Drusilla** as a member of the Herodian family. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G1409}}` occurs in the context of the apostle Paul's imprisonment. In [[Acts 24:24]], **Drusilla** is identified as the **wife** `{{G1135}}` of **Felix** `{{G5344}}`, the Roman governor. The verse notes that she was a **Jewess** `{{G2453}}`. Together, she and Felix **sent for** `{{G3343}}` **Paul** `{{G3972}}` and **heard** `{{G191}}` him speak **concerning** `{{G4012}}` the **faith** `{{G4102}}` **in** `{{G1519}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}`. Her mention provides a specific historical and personal context for this particular hearing of the gospel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this account provide deeper context for Drusilla's brief appearance:
* `{{G5344}}` **Phēlix** (Felix): Defined as happy; Phelix (i.e. Felix), a Roman. He was the governor who, along with his wife Drusilla, summoned Paul [[Acts 24:24]].
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (wife): A woman; specially, a wife. This word defines Drusilla's relationship to Felix in the narrative [[Acts 24:24]].
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Jewess): Judæan, i.e. belonging to Jehudah. This descriptor is key to Drusilla's identity in the passage, distinguishing her background from that of her Roman husband [[Acts 24:24]].
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul): The apostle who was sent for by Felix and Drusilla. His testimony about faith in Christ is the reason for their meeting [[Acts 24:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of mentioning `{{G1409}}` is tied to the event in which she participates.
* **The Gospel's Reach:** The presence of Drusilla, a **Jewess** `{{G2453}}`, with her Roman husband Felix, a person of authority, illustrates the gospel being proclaimed to all people, regardless of ethnic background or social status [[Romans 1:16]].
* **A Witness to Faith:** Drusilla is part of an audience that **heard** `{{G191}}` the apostle Paul speak **concerning** `{{G4012}}` the **faith** `{{G4102}}` **in** `{{G1519}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}`. This scene underscores the importance of hearing the message, a prerequisite for belief [[James 1:19]].
* **Historical Grounding:** The inclusion of specific historical figures like **Drusilla** `{{G1409}}` and **Felix** `{{G5344}}` anchors the narrative of the early church in verifiable history, documenting the interactions between the apostles and the political powers of the day.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1409}}` **Drusilla** is not a theological concept but the name of a historical individual. Her singular mention in scripture is significant because of the context: she was a direct witness to the apostolic proclamation of faith in Christ. Her presence alongside the Roman governor Felix demonstrates that the gospel message was presented to both Jews and Gentiles, reaching even the highest levels of society in the first century.
TRV