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Ἰάειρος

Iáeiros /ee-ah'-i-ros/ Ask about this word
of Hebrew origin (יָאִיר)
Jairus (i.e. Jair), an Israelite
Jairus.
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Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word Iáeiros, represented by G2383, is the proper name Jairus. It is of Hebrew origin and identifies a specific Israelite man mentioned in the biblical accounts. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, highlighting a singular, impactful encounter.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, Jairus G2383 is introduced as a man of significant social standing. The accounts describe him as "one of the rulers of the synagogue" G752 Mark 5:22 and "a ruler" G758 of the synagogue G4864 Luke 8:41. In both instances, his arrival is marked by the word "behold" G2400, drawing attention to his presence. Despite his high position, his approach to Jesus G2424 is one of profound humility and desperation. He "fell down at Jesus' feet" Luke 8:41 and "besought" G3870 him to come into his house G3624.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the context of Jairus's appearance:

  • G752 archisynágōgos (director of the synagogue services): This title in Mark 5:22 establishes Jairus's role as a leader within the Jewish religious community.
  • G758 árchōn (a first in rank or power): Used in Luke 8:41, this term also emphasizes his status as a chief, ruler, or magistrate.
  • G4098 píptō (to fall): This verb describes Jairus's physical act of falling down, a gesture of supplication and reverence toward Jesus (Mark 5:22, Luke 8:41).
  • G3870 parakaléō (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke): This word captures the essence of his appeal to Jesus, as he beseeches or implores Him for help Luke 8:41.
  • G4228 poús (a foot): Jairus falls at Jesus' "feet," signifying a posture of complete submission and earnest appeal before a figure of authority (Mark 5:22, Luke 8:41).

Theological Significance

The brief account of Jairus G2383 carries significant weight. It demonstrates several key themes through his actions.

  • Humility Over Status: As a ruler of the synagogue G752, Jairus held a respected position. His willingness to publicly fall G4098 at the feet G4228 of Jesus shows that his desperation and faith superseded any concern for his social standing.
  • Faith in Action: Jairus does not just send a message; he personally comes G2064 to Jesus. He besought G3870 Jesus to enter G1525 his house G3624, an act demonstrating his belief that Jesus' presence could resolve his crisis.
  • Recognizing Authority: By falling at Jesus' G2424 feet, Jairus, a religious leader, acknowledges a higher authority in Jesus. His actions point toward a recognition of Jesus' power where the established systems could not help.

Summary

In summary, G2383 Iáeiros, while appearing only twice, represents a powerful example of faith and humility. The story of Jairus is not just about a name, but about a respected leader who, in a moment of crisis, set aside his pride to fall at the feet of Jesus. He is remembered as the ruler who recognized true authority and sought help with desperate, active faith.

Grammatical Forms

In the Greek New Testament, this word appears as a noun across 2 occurrences, inflected in 1 grammatical form.

  • Nominative Singular Masculine Individual
Nominative
The subject of the verb.
Singular
One.
Masculine
Masculine grammatical gender.

Theographic Context

Biblical Distribution

Appears in 2 verses across 2 books. Most frequent in Mark (1 verses).

1
Mark
1
Luke

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