The Greek word Lysanías, represented by G3078, is the name of a governor defined as "grief-dispelling." This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. It specifically identifies Lysanias as a governor of Abilene.
The single appearance of G3078 is found in Luke 3:1, where it serves as a precise historical marker. This verse sets the stage for the ministry of John the Baptist by listing the ruling authorities of the time. The timeframe is established as the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar G5086, while Pontius Pilate G4091 was governor G2230 of Judaea G2449 and Herod G2264 was tetrarch G5075 of Galilee G1056. In this context, Lysanias is named as the tetrarch G5075 of Abilene G9.
Several related words from this passage help to establish the political and geographical setting:
- G9 Abilēnḗ (Abilene): This word identifies the specific region of Syria over which Lysanias ruled as tetrarch Luke 3:1.
- G5075 tetrarchéō (to be a tetrarch): This verb defines the political office held by Lysanias, as well as by Herod and his brother Philip, within the Roman provincial system Luke 3:1.
- G2264 Hērṓdēs (Herod): A key contemporary ruler mentioned alongside Lysanias, establishing the broader political landscape of the era Luke 3:1.
- G4091 Pilâtos (Pilate): The Roman governor of Judaea whose rule provides a critical time-stamp for the events described in the Gospel Luke 3:1.
The significance of G3078 is primarily historical rather than theological. Its inclusion demonstrates a commitment to rooting the biblical narrative in factual, verifiable history.
- Historical Precision: Mentioning Lysanias alongside globally recognized figures like Tiberius Caesar G2541 and Pontius Pilate G4091 anchors the Gospel account in a specific and datable period of world history Luke 3:1.
- Political Context: The reference to Lysanias as a tetrarch G5075 helps illustrate the fragmented political structure of Palestine and the surrounding regions under Roman authority at the time.
- Geographic Specificity: Naming the regions governed by different rulers, such as Abilene G9 for Lysanias and Galilee G1056 for Herod, provides a clear geographical map for the setting of John's and Jesus's ministries Luke 3:1.
In summary, Lysanías G3078 is not a major character, but his name serves a vital function. Its single mention in Luke 3:1 is part of a detailed list that firmly grounds the events of the New Testament in real-world history and geography. The inclusion of this tetrarch demonstrates the author's meticulous effort to provide a credible and accurate account of when and where the ministry of John the Baptist began.
TRV