### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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