### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἑκατοντάρχης (hekatontárchēs)**, represented by `{{G1543}}`, identifies a **centurion**, the captain of one hundred men. The term is derived from ἑκατόν (one hundred) and ἄρχω (to rule). It appears **21 times** across **21 unique verses**, highlighting the significant role these Roman military officers played in the narratives of the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, centurions are consistently portrayed as figures of authority who interact with Jesus and the apostles. One centurion demonstrates exceptional faith by asking Jesus to heal his **servant** `{{G3816}}` from a distance, believing that Jesus only needed to **speak** `{{G2036}}` the word for the healing to occur [[Matthew 8:8]]. Another centurion, Cornelius, is described as a **just** `{{G1342}}` and God-fearing man whose piety leads to him receiving the gospel through Peter ([[Acts 10:1]], 22). At the crucifixion, it is a **centurion** `{{G1543}}` who, after witnessing the events, **glorified** `{{G1392}}` God and declared Jesus to be a **righteous** `{{G1342}}` man [[Luke 23:47]] or the Son of God [[Matthew 27:54]]. Later, centurions are instrumental in the custody and protection of Paul, with one named Julius being **willing** `{{G1014}}` to **save** `{{G1295}}` Paul during a shipwreck [[Acts 27:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the military and social context of the **centurion** `{{G1543}}`:
* `{{G4757}}` **stratiṓtēs** (soldier): These are the men under the command of a centurion. A **centurion** `{{G1543}}` exercises authority over his **soldiers** `{{G4757}}` and can be commanded to mobilize them ([[Acts 21:32]], [[Acts 23:23]]).
* `{{G5506}}` **chilíarchos** (chief, high) captain: This refers to a higher-ranking commander of a thousand soldiers. Centurions often receive orders from or report to a **chief captain** `{{G5506}}`, as seen in the events surrounding Paul's arrest and protection ([[Acts 23:17]], [[Acts 22:26]]).
* `{{G4514}}` **Rhōmaîos** (Roman): Centurions were part of the Roman army. Their status as **Roman** `{{G4514}}` officers gave them legal authority, as when Paul questions a **centurion** `{{G1543}}` about the legality of scourging an uncondemned **Roman** `{{G4514}}` man [[Acts 22:25-26]].
* `{{G1198}}` **désmios** (prisoner): Centurions were frequently tasked with guarding prisoners. Julius the **centurion** `{{G1543}}` delivered **prisoners** `{{G1198}}` to the captain of the guard in Rome [[Acts 28:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of the **centurion** `{{G1543}}` is significant, often highlighting the reach of God's grace beyond the Jewish people.
* **Gentile Faith:** The centurions in the Gospels and Acts serve as prime examples of faith among Gentiles. Jesus commends the faith of the **centurion** `{{G1543}}` from Capernaum [[Matthew 8:13]], and Cornelius is chosen as the first Gentile to formally receive the Holy Spirit [[Acts 10:22]].
* **Instruments of Providence:** Centurions often act as instruments in God's plan. They are commanded to provide Paul with **liberty** `{{G425}}` [[Acts 24:23]], and Julius the **centurion** `{{G1543}}` protects Paul's life, ensuring he fulfills his mission to reach Rome [[Acts 27:43]].
* **Witness to Christ:** The declaration of the **centurion** `{{G1543}}` at the cross is a powerful, unbiased testimony to Jesus's identity. As an agent of the state responsible for the crucifixion, his statement that "Truly this was the Son of God" carries immense weight [[Matthew 27:54]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1543}}` is far more than a military rank. While a **centurion** represents the power of the Roman Empire, the individuals holding this title in Scripture are consistently shown in a positive light. They are depicted as men of extraordinary faith, moral character, and as crucial figures in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, demonstrating that God's work extends to all people, regardless of their national or professional identity.
TRV