### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Kornḗlios**, represented by `{{G2883}}`, identifies a Roman man named **Cornelius**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. All occurrences are found in the tenth chapter of the book of Acts, highlighting the central role this individual plays in a pivotal biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Kornḗlios** is introduced as a **centurion** `{{G1543}}` of the **Italian** `{{G2483}}` band, living in **Caesarea** `{{G2542}}` [[Acts 10:1]]. He is characterized as a **just** `{{G1342}}` **man** `{{G435}}` who **feareth** `{{G5399}}` **God** `{{G2316}}` and has a **good report** `{{G3140}}` among the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` [[Acts 10:22]]. His piety is demonstrated through constant **prayer** `{{G4335}}` and giving **alms** `{{G1654}}`, which are explicitly noted as being had in **remembrance** `{{G3415}}` before **God** [[Acts 10:31]]. The story centers on him receiving a **vision** `{{G3705}}` of an **angel** `{{G32}}` who instructs him to send for the apostle **Peter** `{{G4074}}` [[Acts 10:3-5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and character of Cornelius:
* `{{G1543}}` **hekatontárchēs** (centurion): This term defines his rank as "the captain of one hundred men" [[Acts 10:1]]. This establishes him as a Roman military officer with authority.
* `{{G2152}}` **eusebḗs** (devout): Meaning "well-reverent, i.e. pious," this word describes the sincere nature of his faith. It is used to describe both **Cornelius** himself and a **soldier** `{{G4757}}` who served him ([[Acts 10:2]], [[Acts 10:7]]).
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to revere): This word, used to describe Cornelius as one that "feareth God" [[Acts 10:22]], indicates a deep awe and reverence. His piety is a defining attribute.
* `{{G1654}}` **eleēmosýnē** (alms): This word refers to his charitable acts, which are presented as a memorial before **God** [[Acts 10:4]]. It shows that his faith was expressed through tangible actions.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of the account of **Kornḗlios** `{{G2883}}` is significant.
* **A God-Fearing Gentile:** As a Roman **centurion** `{{G1543}}`, **Cornelius** is a non-Jew. However, he is described with terms like **just** `{{G1342}}` and **devout** `{{G2152}}`, attributes of a righteous person [[Acts 10:22]]. His story demonstrates that a person's sincere piety and actions are seen by **God** `{{G2316}}` regardless of their national identity [[Acts 10:31]].
* **Divine Summons:** The narrative emphasizes that **God** initiates the contact. **Cornelius** is **warned from God** `{{G5537}}` by a **holy** `{{G40}}` **angel** `{{G32}}` to **send for** `{{G3343}}` **Peter** [[Acts 10:22]]. This direct, divine intervention underscores the importance of the event.
* **Opening the Door to the Gentiles:** The encounter between **Cornelius** and **Peter** `{{G4074}}` is foundational. When **Peter** arrives, **Cornelius** has already **called together** `{{G4779}}` his **kinsmen** `{{G4773}}` and **friends** `{{G5384}}`, preparing his entire household to **hear** `{{G191}}` the **words** `{{G4487}}` from the apostle ([[Acts 10:22]], [[Acts 10:24]]).
### Summary
In summary, **Kornḗlios** `{{G2883}}` is more than just a historical name; he is the central figure in a narrative that marks a critical turning point. He embodies the devout Gentile whose reverence for God, demonstrated through prayer `{{G4335}}` and alms `{{G1654}}`, prompts a direct divine response. The account of this Roman centurion `{{G1543}}` serves as a clear illustration of God's plan to extend his message beyond the Jews `{{G2453}}` to all nations.
TRV