### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Μνάσων (Mnásōn, `{{G3416}}`) is a proper noun, referring exclusively to a specific individual in the New Testament. Its etymological origin is noted as "uncertain," meaning there is no inherent semantic meaning derived from its linguistic roots in the way one might find for common nouns or verbs. Therefore, its "semantic range" is entirely circumscribed by the identity and role of the person it designates. The primary semantic information conveyed by the term itself, beyond merely identifying an individual, is that Mnason was a "Christian" and an "old disciple," as explicitly stated in the biblical text where he appears. This latter descriptor, "old disciple," carries significant weight, suggesting a long-standing commitment to Christ from the earliest days of the church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Mnason (Μνάσων, `{{G3416}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 21:16]]. The verse states, "And some of the disciples from Caesarea also went with us, bringing us to one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we were to lodge."
The context is crucial: Paul is on his final journey to Jerusalem, despite repeated warnings from prophets and fellow believers about the dangers awaiting him there (e.g., [[Acts 21:10-14]]). In this atmosphere of impending peril, Mnason provides a safe haven and hospitality for Paul and his companions.
Key elements from the text:
* **Origin:** Mnason is identified as "of Cyprus." This connects him to a significant early Christian center, as Cyprus was the homeland of Barnabas ([[Acts 4:36]]) and an early mission field for Paul and Barnabas ([[Acts 13:4-12]]).
* **Designation:** He is explicitly called an "old disciple" (ἀρχαῖος μαθητής). The term ἀρχαῖος (archaîos, `{{G744}}`) denotes something ancient, original, or from the beginning. This suggests Mnason was among the earliest converts to Christianity, perhaps even a believer from the day of Pentecost or shortly thereafter. This makes him a living link to the very genesis of the Christian movement.
* **Role:** His primary role in the narrative is to provide lodging (ξενίζω, xenizō, related to `{{G3578}}`) for Paul and his company. This act of hospitality was vital for early Christian missionaries, who often relied on the generosity of fellow believers for shelter and sustenance during their travels.
Mnason, though a seemingly minor character, plays a critical supporting role, demonstrating the practical outworking of Christian fellowship and mutual support within the early church.
### Related Words & Concepts
While Μνάσων (Mnásōn, `{{G3416}}`) is a proper noun with no direct etymological relatives, its single biblical occurrence connects it to several important biblical concepts and terms:
* **Discipleship (μαθητής - mathētēs, `{{G3101}}`):** Mnason is explicitly identified as a "disciple," highlighting his commitment to following Christ. The adjective "old" (ἀρχαῖος - archaîos, `{{G744}}`) emphasizes the depth and longevity of his commitment.
* **Hospitality (φιλοξενία - philoxenia, `{{G5381}}`):** Mnason's act of providing lodging for Paul exemplifies the virtue of hospitality, a frequently commanded and highly valued practice in the New Testament (e.g., [[Romans 12:13]], [[Hebrews 13:2]], [[1 Peter 4:9]]).
* **Brotherhood/Fellowship (ἀδελφότης - adelphotēs, `{{G80}}` or κοινωνία - koinōnia, `{{G2842}}`):** Mnason's willingness to host Paul underscores the strong bonds of fellowship and mutual support that characterized the early Christian community. Believers were part of a larger family, providing for one another's needs.
* **Early Church Network:** Mnason represents the extensive, though often unseen, network of believers who facilitated the spread of the Gospel by supporting apostles and evangelists.
### Theological Significance
The brief mention of Mnason, though seemingly incidental, carries profound theological significance:
* **The Value of the "Ordinary" Believer:** Mnason is not an apostle, prophet, or prominent leader, yet his contribution is vital. He exemplifies how God uses seemingly ordinary individuals in crucial ways to advance His kingdom. His story reminds us that every member of the body of Christ has a significant role to play, even in acts of humble service like offering hospitality.
* **Continuity and Tradition:** As an "old disciple," Mnason represents the continuity of faith from the earliest days of the church. He is a living testament to the enduring power of the Gospel and the faithfulness of those who embraced it from the very beginning. His presence highlights the intergenerational nature of faith and the passing down of Christian tradition.
* **Practical Expression of Love and Service:** Mnason's act of hospitality is a concrete demonstration of Christian love (ἀγάπη - agapē, `{{G26}}`) and selfless service. In a world where travel was arduous and dangerous, providing safe lodging was a significant act of care, embodying the practical outworking of faith. This underscores that Christian faith is not merely intellectual assent but is expressed through tangible acts of kindness and support for fellow believers, especially those engaged in ministry.
* **God's Provision:** Mnason serves as an example of God's divine provision for His servants. Even as Paul faced increasing opposition and warnings, God ensured his needs were met through the faithful hospitality of believers like Mnason. This reinforces the theological truth that God cares for His own and provides for their journey and mission.
### Summary
Μνάσων (Mnásōn, `{{G3416}}`) is a proper noun, referring to a specific individual mentioned only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 21:16]]. Identified as "Mnason of Cyprus," his most significant descriptor is "an old disciple," indicating his long-standing commitment to Christ from the early days of the church. His role in the narrative is to provide crucial hospitality and lodging for Paul and his companions during their perilous journey to Jerusalem. Theologically, Mnason's brief appearance underscores the profound value of the "ordinary" believer's contribution to God's work, the vital importance of Christian hospitality and fellowship in supporting ministry, and the continuity of faith across generations. He serves as a quiet but powerful example of practical love and God's faithful provision within the early Christian community.
TRV