### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Nymphâs**, represented by `{{G3564}}`, is the name of a Christian. Its base definition is "nymph-given (i.e. -born)". This name appears only **1 time** in **1 verse**, marking it as a specific, yet important, individual mentioned in the context of early church greetings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{G3564}}` occurs in [[Colossians 4:15]]. In this closing passage, the author sends greetings to the believers in a nearby city, instructing them to "Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house." This verse identifies Nymphas as a key figure in the Laodicean Christian community, notable enough to host a congregation of believers in his own home.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this verse provide context for Nymphas's role:
* `{{G782}}` **aspázomai** (salute): This word means to enfold in the arms, welcome, or greet. It shows the warm, personal connection between the writer and Nymphas.
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brethren): Meaning a brother, literally or figuratively, this term places Nymphas within the family of believers who were to be greeted.
* `{{G2993}}` **Laodíkeia** (Laodicea): The name of the city in Asia Minor where Nymphas and the brethren resided, establishing the geographical context of this fellowship.
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): Defined as a religious congregation or assembly, this word confirms that an organized group of Christians met together with Nymphas.
* `{{G3624}}` **oîkos** (house): This term for a dwelling or home specifies the location of the church assembly associated with Nymphas, indicating he was a host to the local believers.
### Theological Significance
The mention of Nymphas, though brief, carries significant insight into the life of the early church.
* **The House Church:** The explicit connection of Nymphas to "the church which is in his house" [[Colossians 4:15]] illustrates the vital role of private homes `{{G3624}}` as the primary meeting places for early Christian congregations.
* **Personal Connection:** The specific instruction to salute `{{G782}}` Nymphas by name, alongside the other brethren `{{G80}}`, highlights the deeply personal and relational nature of fellowship among the first believers.
* **A Pillar of the Community:** By hosting a church `{{G1577}}` in his home, Nymphas is shown to be a foundational member of the Christian community in Laodicea `{{G2993}}`, facilitating worship and gathering for the local believers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3564}}` is the proper name of a Christian man, Nymphas. His single appearance in scripture is a powerful snapshot of early church life. The verse [[Colossians 4:15]] reveals the common practice of meeting in homes and the importance of individuals who, like Nymphas, opened their households to serve as the foundation for local church communities.
TRV