### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Paûlos**, represented by `{{G3972}}`, is a name of Latin origin meaning **little**. It appears **164 times** across **160 unique verses**. The name refers to a Roman and, most significantly, a key apostle in the early church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3972}}` is first introduced as an alternative name for **Saul** `{{G4569}}` [[Acts 13:9]]. Paul is consistently identified by his divine calling as an **apostle** `{{G652}}` of Jesus Christ, not by human authority but by the will `{{G2307}}` of God ([[Galatians 1:1]], [[1 Corinthians 1:1]]). His life is characterized by missionary work alongside companions like **Barnabas** `{{G921}}` and **Silas** `{{G4609}}` ([[Acts 13:46]], [[Acts 16:25]]). His ministry involved preaching `{{G2784}}` the gospel `{{G2098}}` which led to persecution, including being stoned `{{G3034}}` [[Acts 14:19]] and facing plots by Jews `{{G2453}}` who bound themselves under a curse to kill him [[Acts 23:12]]. He also describes himself as a **prisoner** `{{G1198}}` of Jesus Christ [[Ephesians 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the identity and mission of Paul `{{G3972}}`:
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle): This title defines Paul's role as a divinely commissioned ambassador of the Gospel ([[Romans 1:1]], [[Galatians 1:1]]). He was specifically **separated** `{{G873}}` for this work.
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): Paul frequently identifies himself as a **servant** of Jesus Christ [[Philippians 1:1]] and of God [[Titus 1:1]], emphasizing his complete subjection to a divine master.
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (gospel): The **gospel** is the core of Paul's ministry. He was made a **minister** `{{G1249}}` of the gospel, which was preached to every creature under heaven [[Colossians 1:23]].
* `{{G1375}}` **diōgmós** (persecution): Paul's ministry was marked by intense **persecution**, which was raised against him and his companions by those who opposed his message [[Acts 13:50]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Paul `{{G3972}}` is established through several key themes in his life and writings:
* **Divine Calling and Apostleship:** Paul's authority is not from men but directly from God `{{G2316}}` and Jesus Christ `{{G5547}}`, who **raised** `{{G1453}}` him from the dead [[Galatians 1:1]]. This divine calling as an **apostle** `{{G652}}` is a foundational element of his identity ([[Romans 1:1]], [[1 Timothy 1:1]]).
* **Mission to the Gentiles:** A pivotal moment in his ministry is when Paul turns to the **Gentiles** `{{G1484}}` after the Jews judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life [[Acts 13:46]]. He is later described as the prisoner of Jesus Christ for the Gentiles [[Ephesians 3:1]].
* **Suffering as Witness:** Paul's ministry is inseparable from suffering. He expresses his readiness not only to be **bound** `{{G1210}}` but also to **die** `{{G599}}` at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus [[Acts 21:13]]. He endures being beaten [[Acts 16:37]], stoned [[Acts 14:19]], and imprisoned [[Acts 24:27]].
* **Servant of Christ:** By identifying himself as a **servant** `{{G1401}}` of Jesus Christ [[Romans 1:1]], Paul models a life of complete submission and dedication. He is a minister `{{G1249}}` through whom people believed [[1 Corinthians 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **Paûlos** `{{G3972}}` is more than a name; it represents a monumental figure whose life was transformed for the service of the **gospel** `{{G2098}}`. From **Saul** `{{G4569}}` to Paul, his identity is defined by his divine calling as an **apostle** `{{G652}}`, his unwavering role as a **servant** `{{G1401}}` of Christ, and his steadfast endurance through **persecution** `{{G1375}}`. He is a primary instrument for carrying the message of salvation `{{G4991}}` to the **Gentiles** `{{G1484}}`, and his life demonstrates a profound commitment to Christ, even unto death.
TRV