### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Νικάνωρ (Nikánōr, `{{G3527}}`) is a proper noun, a personal name. Its etymology traces back to the Greek verb νικάω (nikaō, `{{G3528}}`), meaning "to conquer," "to overcome," or "to be victorious." Thus, the name Νικάνωρ inherently carries the meaning "victorious" or "conqueror." While it could theoretically imply a "victor of men" (from *nikao* and *anēr*, man), the core sense conveyed by Strong's definition and common understanding is simply "victorious." As a proper name, its semantic range is fixed by its referent, the individual Nicanor, but its inherent meaning provides a layer of subtext.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Nicanor is mentioned only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts. He is listed among the seven men chosen by the early Christian community to serve as deacons, tasked with overseeing the daily distribution of food to Hellenistic Jewish widows who felt overlooked.
* [[Acts 6:5]]: "And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch."
The context in [[Acts 6:1-6]] describes a practical problem within the burgeoning church: a complaint from the Hellenistic Jews that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. To address this, and to allow the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, seven men "of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom" were selected for this service. Nicanor's inclusion among this esteemed group signifies his standing within the early church as a man possessing these vital spiritual and moral qualities. While the text does not elaborate on Nicanor's specific actions beyond his selection, his role as one of the first deacons underscores his commitment to the community's practical needs and his spiritual maturity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic root for Νικάνωρ is νικάω (nikaō, `{{G3528}}`), which is a significant verb in the New Testament, frequently used to describe spiritual conquest. For instance, in the Johannine epistles, it speaks of overcoming the world and its evil ([[1 John 4:4]], [[1 John 5:4-5]]). The book of Revelation also uses it extensively to describe the victory of Christ and His faithful followers ([[Revelation 2:7]], [[Revelation 3:21]], [[Revelation 5:5]]). Other related Greek names derived from the same root include:
* Νίκη (Nikē, `{{G3529}}`): "victory" (though not found as a noun in the NT).
* Νικόδημος (Nikodēmos, `{{G3530}}`): Nicodemus, meaning "victor of the people."
* Νικόλαος (Nikolaos, `{{G3532}}`): Nicolaus, also meaning "victor of the people."
The concept of "victory" is central to Christian theology, encompassing triumph over sin, death, and the forces of evil, ultimately achieved through Christ.
### Theological Significance
While Nicanor himself plays a quiet, yet crucial, role in the biblical narrative, the meaning of his name, "victorious," resonates deeply with core Christian theological tenets. The Christian life is often portrayed as a spiritual battle, where believers are called to "fight the good fight of faith" ([[1 Timothy 6:12]]). The ultimate victory belongs to God and is manifested in Christ's triumph over sin and death on the cross ([[1 Corinthians 15:57]]). Believers are called to participate in this victory, becoming "more than conquerors" through Him who loved them ([[Romans 8:37]]). The victory that overcomes the world is declared to be "our faith" ([[1 John 5:4]]). Nicanor's name, therefore, serves as a subtle, yet profound, reminder of the spiritual victory inherent in the Christian walk and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. His role as a deacon further illustrates that this victory is not merely a personal spiritual achievement but is expressed through humble service and active participation in the communal life of the body of Christ, addressing practical needs with spiritual wisdom.
### Summary
Nicanor (Νικάνωρ, `{{G3527}}`) is a Greek proper name meaning "victorious," derived from the verb νικάω (nikaō, `{{G3528}}`), "to conquer." He is mentioned once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 6:5]], as one of the seven men chosen by the early church to serve as deacons, tasked with overseeing the fair distribution of food to widows. His selection highlights his reputation as a man "full of the Spirit and of wisdom." The inherent meaning of his name, "victorious," connects to broader biblical themes of spiritual triumph over sin and the world, achieved through faith in Christ. Nicanor's quiet service exemplifies how this spiritual victory is lived out not just in personal piety but also in practical, humble ministry within the Christian community.
TRV