a form of Ἰωάννης; Joannas, an Israelite:--Joannas.
Transliteration:Iōannâs
Pronunciation:ee-o-an-nas'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma *Iōannâs* (`{{G2490}}`) is identified as a variant form of *Iōannēs* (`{{G2491}}`). Both are Hellenized forms of the Hebrew name *Yochanan* (יוֹחָנָן), which carries the rich theological meaning "Yahweh is gracious" or "The Lord has been gracious." As a proper noun, *Iōannâs* refers specifically to an individual, and its semantic range is therefore limited to identification. However, the inherent meaning of the name itself subtly points to the divine attribute of grace, a foundational concept in biblical theology.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name *Iōannâs* (`{{G2490}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically within the meticulously detailed genealogy of Jesus found in [[Luke 3:27]]. In this passage, *Iōannâs* is listed as a son of Rhesa and the father of Joannas (or Joanna, depending on the specific manuscript tradition and interpretation, though the lemma here is clearly masculine). Luke's genealogy, unlike Matthew's, traces Jesus' lineage backward from Joseph through Mary's line (traditionally understood) all the way to Adam and ultimately to God. The inclusion of *Iōannâs* serves primarily to establish a continuous link in this ancestral chain, affirming the historical and human rootedness of Jesus' origins. No further narrative information or historical role is attributed to *Iōannâs* beyond his place in this vital lineage, emphasizing his role as a link in the providential unfolding of God's plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is *Iōannēs* (`{{G2491}}`), the more common form from which *Iōannâs* is derived. *Iōannēs* is famously associated with John the Baptist and John the Apostle, both pivotal figures whose lives powerfully demonstrated God's grace. The Hebrew original, *Yochanan* (יוֹחָנָן), is a common name throughout the Old Testament, further underscoring the enduring significance of the concept of divine grace. The broader concept of *genealogy* itself (e.g., [[Matthew 1:1-17]], [[Luke 3:23-38]]) is crucial for understanding the significance of *Iōannâs*, as these lists serve theological purposes, establishing lineage, fulfilling prophecy, and demonstrating the meticulous nature of divine providence. Finally, the underlying meaning of the name points to *grace* (χάρις - *charis*, `{{G5485}}`), a central theme of God's redemptive work.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *Iōannâs* (`{{G2490}}`) is entirely encapsulated within his position in the Lukan genealogy of Jesus. His inclusion underscores several profound theological truths:
1. **Divine Providence and Sovereignty:** The meticulous listing of generations, even seemingly obscure figures like *Iōannâs*, highlights God's sovereign and detailed plan unfolding through history. Every individual, every generation, is part of a divinely orchestrated tapestry leading to the advent of the Messiah.
2. **Messianic Legitimacy:** His presence affirms the historical and genealogical authenticity of Jesus as the Christ, demonstrating His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage. This provides a tangible link between the Old Covenant promises and their New Covenant fulfillment.
3. **Humanity of Christ:** By tracing Jesus' ancestry through a comprehensive human lineage, Luke emphasizes the full humanity of Jesus, affirming His solidarity with all humankind—a foundational truth of the Incarnation.
4. **Echo of Grace:** While not explicitly expounded in the text, the very meaning of *Iōannâs*—"Yahweh is gracious"—serves as a subtle, yet potent, theological whisper within the lineage. It foreshadows the ultimate act of divine grace revealed in Jesus Christ, whose entire mission is an outpouring of God's unmerited favor upon humanity. The names in the lineage can thus be seen as silent testimonies to the gracious character of the God who orchestrates salvation history.
### Summary
*Iōannâs* (`{{G2490}}`) is a Greek proper noun, a variant of *Iōannēs* (`{{G2491}}`), meaning "Yahweh is gracious." Its sole appearance in the New Testament is in [[Luke 3:27]], where he is listed as an ancestor in Jesus' genealogy. Although *Iōannâs* is a minor figure without a narrative role, his inclusion is deeply significant. He serves as a vital link in the divinely orchestrated lineage of the Messiah, affirming Jesus' historical authenticity and His full humanity. The name itself subtly echoes the pervasive theme of God's grace, a grace fully manifested in the person and work of Jesus Christ, thereby underscoring the providential care of God throughout salvation history.
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