### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Kandákē**, represented by `{{G2582}}`, is a proper name of foreign origin for a queen. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The name specifically identifies the queen of the Ethiopians during the time of the early church, and her mention provides the context for a significant event in the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2582}}` is in the account of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. The scripture introduces "a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under **Candace** queen of the Ethiopians" [[Acts 8:27]]. This official was in charge of all her treasure and was returning from Jerusalem, where he had gone to worship. This verse establishes **Candace** as a powerful and wealthy monarch whose court included officials who were spiritually seeking.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the context around **Candace** and her kingdom:
* `{{G938}}` **basílissa** (a queen): This is the specific title attributed to **Candace**, confirming her royal status as the ruler of the Ethiopians [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G128}}` **Aithíops** (an Æthiopian): This term identifies the nationality of the people ruled by **Candace** and of the eunuch who served in her court [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G1413}}` **dynástēs** (a ruler or officer): This describes the high rank of the official serving under **Candace**, who is called a man "of great authority" [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G2135}}` **eunoûchos** (eunuch): This word defines the role of the high-ranking official from **Candace's** court, who was a chamberlain or state-officer [[Acts 8:27]].
* `{{G1047}}` **gáza** (a treasure): This word highlights the wealth of **Candace's** kingdom, as her official was in charge of all her **treasure** [[Acts 8:27]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G2582}}` is tied entirely to the story it introduces:
* **A Foreign Power:** **Candace** represents a significant, non-Jewish authority. Her mention illustrates the existence of organized Gentile kingdoms whose subjects were engaged in religious pilgrimage.
* **Context for Conversion:** Her role as queen provides the background for her official, the Ethiopian eunuch. This official, returning from his journey to **worship** `{{G4352}}`, becomes one of the first recorded Gentile converts in the book of Acts.
* **Gateway for the Gospel:** The story of the official from **Candace's** court demonstrates the spread of the gospel to distant lands, fulfilling the commission to be witnesses to the ends of the earth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2582}}` **Kandákē** is not a common term but a specific proper name. Its single mention in scripture is crucial for establishing the identity and origin of the Ethiopian eunuch. While **Candace** herself is not a central character, her name signifies a powerful foreign kingdom whose devout official becomes a key figure in the expansion of the early Christian church.
TRV