probably contracted from a poetic form of Ζεύς and δῶρον; Jove-given; Zenas, a Christian:--Zenas.
Transliteration:Zēnâs
Pronunciation:dzay-nas'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Ζηνᾶς (Zēnâs), transliterated as Zenas, is a proper noun referring to a specific individual mentioned in the New Testament. Its etymology is generally understood to be a contraction of a poetic form of Ζεύς (Zeus) and δῶρον (dōron), thus meaning "Jove-given" or "gift of Zeus." This etymological root points to a pagan origin for the name, common in the Greco-Roman world. However, within the biblical context, the name identifies a Christian believer and coworker, signifying the transformation and inclusion of individuals from diverse cultural and naming backgrounds into the early Church. As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to the identity of the person it designates, rather than a concept or object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Zenas appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's epistle to Titus:
* [[Titus 3:13]]: "Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing."
The context of this verse is Paul's instructions to Titus concerning various practical matters and individuals. Zenas is mentioned alongside Apollos, a prominent early Christian teacher and evangelist `{{G625}}`. Paul instructs Titus, who is ministering in Crete, to provide for Zenas and Apollos as they travel. This indicates that Zenas was a trusted associate of Paul, engaged in missionary or ministerial travel. The most significant detail provided about Zenas is his profession: "the lawyer" (νομικός, *nomikos*). This term could refer to a Jewish scholar of the Mosaic Law (similar to a scribe or expert in the law, as seen in the Gospels when referring to those who questioned Jesus, e.g., [[Luke 7:30]]) or, more likely given the Greco-Roman context of Crete and the Greek name, a Roman or Greek legal professional. The latter interpretation suggests Zenas was trained in the secular legal systems of the time, perhaps as an advocate, jurist, or legal scholar. This detail highlights the diverse backgrounds of those who became followers of Christ and served in the early Church.
### Related Words & Concepts
While Ζηνᾶς itself is a proper noun, its etymological components relate to broader concepts. The element "Zeus" connects to the Greek pantheon, representing the dominant pagan religious framework from which many early Christians, including potentially Zenas, were converted. The element "gift" (δῶρον) is a significant theological concept throughout Scripture, referring to divine provision, the gift of the Holy Spirit, or spiritual gifts (e.g., [[Romans 6:23]], [[Ephesians 4:8]]). However, in Zenas's case, the "gift" aspect is tied to a pagan deity, which is then transcended by his identity as a Christian.
The term "lawyer" (νομικός, *nomikos*) connects Zenas to the broader category of those skilled in law. Other related Greek terms include νομοδιδάσκαλος (*nomodidaskalos*), "teacher of the law" `{{G3547}}`, and γραμματεύς (*grammateus*), "scribe" `{{G1122}}`. Zenas's profession suggests a background of intellectual rigor and knowledge of legal systems, which would have been valuable skills potentially repurposed for the service of the Gospel.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, Zenas does not carry inherent theological significance in the way a concept like "grace" or "redemption" does. However, his inclusion in Paul's letter offers several insights. Firstly, Zenas's presence underscores the diverse backgrounds of early Christians. His pagan-rooted name and profession as a "lawyer" demonstrate the Gospel's power to transform individuals from all walks of life, integrating them into the body of Christ. It illustrates that God calls and uses people from various intellectual and professional spheres, including those trained in secular or even previously pagan systems. Secondly, the instruction to Titus to "speed Zenas... on their way" and "see that they lack nothing" highlights the importance of Christian hospitality, mutual support, and practical care within the early Church. It reflects the collaborative nature of missionary work and the responsibility of local churches to support traveling ministers. Zenas was not merely a passive recipient of aid but an active participant in the spread of the Gospel, likely using his intellectual and perhaps rhetorical skills in his ministry.
### Summary
Zenas (Ζηνᾶς, `{{G2211}}`) is a proper name of Greek origin, likely meaning "Jove-given," referring to a Christian individual mentioned only once in the New Testament, in [[Titus 3:13]]. He is identified as "the lawyer" (νομικός), suggesting a background in legal studies or practice, possibly Roman or Greek law. Paul instructs Titus to provide for Zenas and Apollos as they travel, indicating Zenas's role as a trusted associate and fellow worker in early Christian ministry. His inclusion in the biblical text highlights the diverse backgrounds of those called into Christian service and the emphasis on hospitality and mutual support among believers. Zenas exemplifies how individuals from various societal and intellectual spheres were transformed by the Gospel and utilized for the advancement of God's kingdom.
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