of uncertain origin; Lois, a Christian woman:--Lois.
Transliteration:Lōḯs
Pronunciation:lo-ece'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Λωΐς (Lōΐs), Strong's number `{{G3090}}`, is a proper noun, designating a specific individual in the New Testament. Its etymological origin is noted as uncertain, meaning its inherent semantic range is not derived from a root meaning but rather from the identity of the person it names. As a proper noun, its "meaning" is simply the individual herself, Lois. Her significance is therefore entirely dependent on her role and character as presented in the biblical text. The term points to a woman known for her profound spiritual influence, particularly within the context of family and faith transmission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Lois appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul’s second letter to Timothy:
> "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well." [[2 Timothy 1:5]]
In this singular occurrence, Lois is identified as the grandmother of Timothy, the recipient of the epistle, and the mother of Eunice. Paul's commendation highlights a remarkable spiritual lineage. He explicitly links Timothy's "sincere faith" (ἀνυπόκριτος πίστις, *anypokritos pistis* `{{G505}}` `{{G4102}}`) to that which resided *first* in Lois, then in Eunice, and subsequently in Timothy himself. This verse underscores the vital role of these women in nurturing Timothy's spiritual life from an early age. The context is one of encouragement and affirmation, as Paul reminds Timothy of his spiritual heritage, a foundation upon which his ministry is built. It suggests that Lois was a woman of deep, authentic conviction who actively passed on her faith to her daughter and grandson.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words and concepts are intrinsically linked to Λωΐς (Lōΐs) due to her singular biblical mention:
* **Eunice (Εὐνίκη, Eunikē `{{G2158}}`):** Lois's daughter and Timothy's mother, always mentioned in conjunction with Lois in [[2 Timothy 1:5]], emphasizing the familial chain of faith.
* **Timothy (Τιμόθεος, Timotheos `{{G5095}}`):** The grandson of Lois, whose faith is directly attributed to the spiritual influence of his grandmother and mother.
* **Faith (πίστις, pistis `{{G4102}}`):** The core quality attributed to Lois and Eunice, described as "sincere" or "unfeigned" (ἀνυπόκριτος, anypokritos `{{G505}}`), indicating its genuine and authentic nature.
* **Spiritual Heritage/Legacy:** The concept of faith being transmitted across generations within a family, forming a foundational spiritual upbringing.
* **Nurturing/Discipleship:** Lois's role exemplifies the quiet yet profound work of spiritual formation within the home.
### Theological Significance
Though Lois is mentioned only once, her significance is profound within the broader biblical narrative of faith and discipleship.
1. **Model of Intergenerational Faith:** Lois stands as a powerful example of the vital role grandparents play in the transmission of faith. Her "sincere faith" was not merely personal piety but an active, influential force that shaped her daughter and grandson. This highlights the importance of spiritual legacy and the passing down of Christian values through familial lines.
2. **Role of Women in Early Christianity:** Lois, alongside Eunice, exemplifies the crucial, often unsung, contributions of women in the early church. While not apostles or public preachers, their domestic influence in nurturing the faith of future leaders like Timothy was indispensable. They represent the foundational strength of the Christian household.
3. **Authenticity of Faith:** The description of her faith as "sincere" (ἀνυπόκριτος) emphasizes its genuineness and lack of hypocrisy. This serves as a timeless model for all believers, underscoring that true faith is deeply rooted and permeates one's entire being, impacting those around them.
4. **Foundation for Ministry:** Timothy's effective ministry was, in part, a testament to the spiritual groundwork laid by Lois and Eunice. Their faithful instruction and example provided him with a robust spiritual foundation, demonstrating how personal piety within the home directly contributes to the strength and future of the church's leadership.
### Summary
Λωΐς (Lōΐs) `{{G3090}}` is a proper noun referring to Timothy's grandmother, a woman whose "sincere faith" (ἀνυπόκριτος πίστις) is explicitly commended by the Apostle Paul in [[2 Timothy 1:5]]. While her name's origin is uncertain and her biblical appearances are limited to a single verse, her significance is profound. Lois stands as a powerful biblical illustration of intergenerational faith transmission, demonstrating the critical role of grandparents and mothers in nurturing spiritual life within the family. Her authentic piety served as a foundational influence for Timothy's own faith and subsequent ministry, underscoring the quiet yet indispensable contributions of women in shaping the spiritual heritage of the church.
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