### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Kyrḗnios**, represented by `{{G2958}}`, is a name of Latin origin referring to **Cyrenius** (i.e. Quirinus), a Roman. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying a specific historical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2958}}` is in the context of a government-mandated enrollment. The verse states that "this taxing was first made when **Cyrenius** was governor of Syria" [[Luke 2:2]]. This mention firmly places the event within a specific administrative and geographical setting, linking the biblical narrative to the period of his governorship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help to clarify the role of Cyrenius:
* `{{G2230}}` **hēgemoneúō** (to act as ruler): This verb defines the official capacity of Cyrenius as a governor. The same term is used to describe the authority of Pontius Pilate over Judaea [[Luke 3:1]], establishing a parallel of Roman rule.
* `{{G582}}` **apographḗ** (an enrollment; by implication, an assessment): This noun describes the event Cyrenius oversaw. This term for a taxing or enrollment is also used in reference to the uprising of Judas of Galilee [[Acts 5:37]].
* `{{G4947}}` **Syría** (Syria... a region of Asia): This name identifies the region under the governance of Cyrenius. The fame of Jesus's ministry also went throughout all **Syria** [[Matthew 4:24]], and the region was a destination in Paul's travels [[Acts 18:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of the name `{{G2958}}` is tied directly to its historical function within the text.
* **Historical Anchor:** The reference to Cyrenius serves as a historical marker, tying the biblical event of the taxing `{{G582}}` to a specific Roman governor `{{G2230}}` and his jurisdiction over Syria `{{G4947}}` as recorded in [[Luke 2:2]].
* **Instrument of Divine Action:** The administrative act overseen by Cyrenius is described with the verb `gínomai` `{{G1096}}`, meaning to cause to be or become. This same word is used in contexts where things are divinely brought to pass, such as when the Word "was made flesh" [[John 1:14]] or when prayer "shall be done" [[John 15:7]], suggesting that the governor's decree was the mechanism for a significant event to occur.
### Summary
In summary, while **Kyrḗnios** `{{G2958}}` is mentioned only once, its role is pivotal. It serves not merely as a name, but as a crucial link to a specific historical time and Roman administrative action. The mention of Cyrenius grounds the narrative in a real-world context of governance and enrollment [[Luke 2:2]], illustrating how a secular, historical event functions within the biblical account.
TRV