### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Kyrēnaîos**, represented by `{{G2956}}`, is used to identify an **inhabitant of Cyrene**. This geographical identifier appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the New Testament. While it simply denotes a person's origin, the individuals described as Cyrenian play significant roles in key biblical events, particularly in the story of the crucifixion and the expansion of the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Gospel narratives, `{{G2956}}` is most famously associated with Simon, a **man of Cyrene** who was compelled to carry the cross of Jesus ([[Matthew 27:32]]; [[Luke 23:26]]). Mark's account adds that this Simon was the **father** `{{G3962}}` of Alexander and Rufus [[Mark 15:21]]. Beyond the crucifixion, Cyrenians are shown to be active in the life of the early church. In Jerusalem, **Cyrenians** were part of a **synagogue** `{{G4864}}` that disputed with Stephen [[Acts 6:9]]. Later, men from Cyrene were among the first to travel to Antioch and **preach** `{{G2097}}` the Lord Jesus to the Grecians [[Acts 11:20]]. The church at Antioch also included Lucius of Cyrene among its **prophets** `{{G4396}}` and **teachers** `{{G1320}}` [[Acts 13:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the actions of the Cyrenians:
* `{{G29}}` **angareúō** (to press into public service): This word describes the action taken against Simon of Cyrene, who was **compelled** to bear the cross ([[Matthew 27:32]]; [[Mark 15:21]]), highlighting the non-voluntary nature of his initial involvement.
* `{{G2097}}` **euangelízō** (to announce good news): This term is used to describe the activity of the Cyrenians in Antioch, who took the initiative in **preaching** the gospel to a new audience [[Acts 11:20]].
* `{{G4802}}` **syzētéō** (to investigate jointly, i.e. discuss, controvert): This describes the interaction between a group including Cyrenians and Stephen, where they were **disputing** with him before his martyrdom [[Acts 6:9]].
* `{{G1320}}` **didáskalos** (an instructor): The presence of Lucius of Cyrene among the **teachers** at Antioch signifies that Cyrenians held positions of authority and instruction within the early church [[Acts 13:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2956}}` is found in the actions of the people it describes.
* **Bearing the Cross:** Simon of Cyrene provides a literal picture of the call to discipleship. He is a man from a foreign land who is pressed into service to **bear** `{{G142}}` the **cross** `{{G4716}}` of Jesus, illustrating the theme of sharing in Christ's suffering [[Matthew 27:32]].
* **Mission to the Gentiles:** The Cyrenians who came to Antioch were pioneers. By **preaching** `{{G2097}}` to the **Grecians** `{{G1675}}`, they helped initiate a pivotal expansion of the gospel beyond its Jewish origins [[Acts 11:20]].
* **Diversity in Church Leadership:** The mention of Lucius of Cyrene as a **teacher** `{{G1320}}` in the church at Antioch demonstrates that the leadership of the early Christian movement was not confined to a single ethnicity or region, but was drawn from various parts of the world [[Acts 13:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **Kyrēnaîos** `{{G2956}}` is more than a simple label of origin. It connects a specific group of people to foundational moments in the New Testament. From the poignant image of Simon being compelled to carry the cross of Christ to the proactive efforts of believers who spread the gospel in Antioch, Cyrenians are portrayed as integral participants in the central narrative of Christian faith. Their story illustrates themes of discipleship, suffering, and the universal reach of the early church.
TRV