### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Nikólaos**, represented by `{{G3532}}`, means **victorious over the people**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The name identifies an individual named Nicolaus, who is described as a heretic in the base definition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G3532}}` is in the context of the early church selecting seven men for service. The proposal to do so **pleased** `{{G700}}` the **whole** `{{G3956}}` **multitude** `{{G4128}}`, who then **chose** `{{G1586}}` the men. Among them was **Nicolas** `{{G3532}}`, who is uniquely identified as a **proselyte** `{{G4339}}` of **Antioch** `{{G491}}`. He is listed alongside other figures such as Stephen, a **man** `{{G435}}` described as **full** `{{G4134}}` of **faith** `{{G4102}}` and of the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}` [[Acts 6:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of Nicolas's selection:
* `{{G1586}}` **eklégomai** (to select): This word, meaning to **choose** or make choice, is critical to Nicolas's introduction. He was part of a group that the multitude **chose** [[Acts 6:5]] for a special role in the church.
* `{{G4339}}` **prosḗlytos** (an arriver from a foreign region... "proselyte"): This term specifies that Nicolas was a convert to Judaism. The text explicitly calls him a **proselyte** [[Acts 6:5]], distinguishing his background.
* `{{G491}}` **Antiocheús** (an Antiochian or inhabitant of Antiochia): This identifies Nicolas's geographical origin, noting him as a proselyte **of Antioch** [[Acts 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of Nicolas's inclusion is significant for several reasons:
* **Inclusivity of the Early Church:** The specific identification of Nicolas as a **proselyte** `{{G4339}}` from **Antioch** `{{G491}}` is important. It demonstrates that the early community chose leaders not just from among lifelong Jews but also from converts, highlighting the church's expanding nature [[Acts 6:5]].
* **The Foundation of Church Service:** Nicolas was one of seven men **chose**[n] `{{G1586}}` to address a practical need within the **multitude** `{{G4128}}`. This event establishes a model for delegated service and administration within the church, ensuring that the community's needs are met [[Acts 6:5]].
* **Character for Service:** Although the text does not detail Nicolas’s qualities individually, he was selected as part of a group of men required to be of honest report and **full** `{{G4134}}` of the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}` and wisdom [[Acts 6:3]].
### Summary
In summary, **Nicolas** `{{G3532}}` is mentioned only once in scripture but holds a significant place as one of the first seven men chosen for service in the Jerusalem church. His identity as a **proselyte** `{{G4339}}` from Antioch underscores the inclusive nature of the early Christian community. Though his name means "victorious over the people," his biblical role is one of service, chosen by the people to meet their needs [[Acts 6:5]].
TRV