### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Hermogénēs**, represented by `{{G2061}}`, means **born of Hermes**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, and the base definition identifies **Hermogenes** as an **apostate Christian**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Hermogenes** `{{G2061}}` is in [[2 Timothy 1:15]]. In this verse, Paul writes to Timothy, stating as a fact that he **knowest** `{{G1492}}` **that** `{{G5124}}` **all** `{{G3956}}` those who are **in** `{{G1722}}` **Asia** `{{G773}}` have **turned away from** `{{G654}}` him. **Hermogenes** is explicitly named, along with **Phygellus** `{{G5436}}`, as being among this group.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the mention of **Hermogenes**:
* `{{G5436}}` **Phýgellos** (fugitive; Phygellus, an apostate Christian): This individual is named directly alongside **Hermogenes** as one of those who are among the group that turned away from Paul [[2 Timothy 1:15]].
* `{{G654}}` **apostréphō** (to turn away or back): This verb describes the action taken by **Hermogenes** and the others in **Asia**. The word is also used to describe turning from the truth [[Titus 1:14]] and is a warning against turning away from him that speaks from heaven [[Hebrews 12:25]].
* `{{G773}}` **Asía** (Asia, i.e. Asia Minor, or... its western shore): This is the geographical region where the desertion occurred. **Asia** is also the location of the seven churches addressed in the book of Revelation [[Revelation 1:4]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to know): Paul uses this word to establish that Timothy is already aware of this desertion. The term often implies a sure and certain knowledge, as in the statement "we **know** that all things work together for good" [[Romans 8:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2061}}` comes from its role as a cautionary example.
* **Warning Against Apostasy:** **Hermogenes** is defined as an "apostate Christian," and his story serves as a specific illustration of this danger. The action of turning away `{{G654}}` is presented as a serious offense, elsewhere linked to turning from the truth [[Titus 1:14]].
* **The Reality of Desertion:** The account in [[2 Timothy 1:15]] is a stark reminder that even an apostle could face abandonment. Paul states that **all** `{{G3956}}` believers **in** `{{G1722}}` **Asia** had turned away, highlighting the widespread nature of the rejection he faced.
* **A Call to Faithfulness:** By presenting the negative example of **Hermogenes**, the passage implicitly calls for the opposite. Other scriptures urge believers to "stand fast **in** the faith" [[1 Corinthians 16:13]] and to **know** `{{G1492}}` that their labor **is** `{{G2076}}` not in vain **in** the Lord [[1 Corinthians 15:58]], a direct contrast to the actions of those who turn away.
### Summary
In summary, **Hermogenes** `{{G2061}}` is a minor figure whose significance lies entirely in his negative example. He is mentioned only once, not for any accomplishment, but as a named individual who, along with **Phygellus** `{{G5436}}`, turned away from Paul in **Asia** [[2 Timothy 1:15]]. His story serves as a concise and permanent biblical warning about the reality of apostasy and the need for enduring faithfulness.
TRV