from ἐπαινέω; praised; Epænetus, a Christian:--Epenetus.
Transliteration:Epaínetos
Pronunciation:ep-a'-hee-net-os
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1866 (Epaínetos) functions as a proper noun in the New Testament, derived directly from the verb G1867 (epaineō), meaning "to praise," "to commend," or "to applaud." Consequently, Epaínetos carries the inherent meaning of "praised," "worthy of praise," or "laudable." As a personal name, it would signify "one who is praised" or "one who is commendable," reflecting either a characteristic of the individual or a hopeful aspiration given at birth. The semantic range is thus tightly bound to the concept of commendation and honor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Epaínetos appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul's epistle to the Romans:
* [[Romans 16:5]]: "Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ in Asia."
In this sole occurrence, Paul extends a personal greeting to Epaenetus, whom he describes with two significant identifiers: "my beloved" (G27 - agapētos) and "the first convert to Christ in Asia." The term "first convert" (G5363 - aparchē, literally "firstfruits") is particularly noteworthy, signifying Epaenetus's pioneering role in the spread of the Gospel. He represents the initial yield of believers in the Roman province of Asia, a region central to early Christian expansion. Paul's affectionate designation "my beloved" further underscores the high regard and personal connection the apostle had with Epaenetus, suggesting a deep appreciation for his character and foundational contribution to the faith. The name's intrinsic meaning, "praised," aligns perfectly with Paul's commendation, whether coincidental or reflective of Epaenetus's admirable qualities.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological root of G1866 is G1867 (epaineō), the verb "to praise." Closely related is the noun G1868 (epainos), meaning "praise" or "commendation." These linguistic connections highlight the core concept of affirmation and honor embedded within the name.
Beyond its linguistic roots, Epaínetos is associated with several significant theological and historical concepts:
* **Firstfruits (G5363 - aparchē):** This term, applied to Epaenetus, carries rich Old Testament connotations of the consecrated first portion of a harvest offered to God. In the New Testament, it signifies the initial group of converts from a particular region, symbolizing the beginning of a larger spiritual harvest and the divine claim over it.
* **Beloved (G27 - agapētos):** Paul's affectionate address connects Epaenetus to a broader category of esteemed individuals within the early Christian community, highlighting the bonds of Christian love and fellowship.
* **Early Christian Expansion:** Epaenetus's identity as the "first convert in Asia" places him at the vanguard of the Gospel's geographical spread, illustrating the organic and personal nature of early missionary efforts.
### Theological Significance
While Epaínetos is a proper name and not a theological concept in itself, its singular appearance and descriptive context carry profound theological implications.
1. **Divine Initiative and Human Response:** Epaenetus, as the "firstfruits," embodies the initial breakthrough of God's redemptive work in a specific region through the Gospel. His conversion signifies a divine initiative met by a human response, setting a precedent for subsequent evangelism and discipleship.
2. **Value of the Individual in God's Kingdom:** Paul's specific and affectionate mention of Epaenetus, alongside numerous other individuals in [[Romans 16]], underscores the New Testament emphasis on the value of each person within the body of Christ. Even those mentioned briefly are recognized for their unique contributions and personal faith.
3. **Commendation of Faithfulness:** The name "praised" resonates with the commendation Paul bestows upon Epaenetus. It subtly suggests that those who are among the first to embrace Christ, especially in new territories, are indeed worthy of praise and honor, not for their own merit, but for their faithfulness in responding to the divine call. This foreshadows the ultimate commendation from Christ: "Well done, good and faithful servant" ([[Matthew 25:21]]).
4. **Organic Growth of the Church:** Epaenetus's role as "firstfruits" illustrates the organic, person-by-person growth of the early church, emphasizing that the global spread of the Gospel began with individual conversions and the formation of small, committed communities.
### Summary
G1866 (Epaínetos) is a Greek proper name meaning "praised" or "worthy of praise," derived from the verb G1867 ("to praise"). Its sole New Testament occurrence is in [[Romans 16:5]], where Paul affectionately greets "my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ in Asia." This designation as "firstfruits" highlights Epaenetus's foundational role in the spread of the Gospel within a significant Roman province. The name's meaning aligns with Paul's commendation, underscoring the value and honor given to early believers who courageously embraced the faith. Epaenetus's brief mention serves as a poignant reminder of the individual conversions that fueled the early church's expansion and the deep personal bonds within the nascent Christian community.
TRV