### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Περσίς (Persís), Strong's number `{{G4069}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a feminine personal name. Its etymological root likely connects it to "Persian" or "a woman from Persia," indicating a possible ethnic or geographical origin. In the New Testament, its semantic range is strictly confined to identifying a particular individual within the early Christian community. As a proper noun, it does not carry a broad conceptual meaning but rather points to the unique identity of a person known to the Apostle Paul and, by extension, to the Roman church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Περσίς (Persís) appears only once in the New Testament, within the closing greetings of Paul's Epistle to the Romans:
* [[Romans 16:12]]: "Greet Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother and mine."
In this sole occurrence, Persis is singled out for a specific commendation: she "has worked hard in the Lord" (τὴν κοπιῶσαν ἐν κυρίῳ). The Greek verb κοπιῶσαν (kopiōsan), derived from `{{G2872}}` (kopiaō), signifies strenuous labor, toil, or exertion, often implying weariness from effort. Paul uses this same verb to describe his own intense apostolic labor (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 15:10]], [[Galatians 4:11]]) and the work of other dedicated servants (e.g., [[1 Timothy 5:17]]). The phrase "in the Lord" indicates that her labor was not merely human effort but was consecrated to Christ, empowered by Him, and directed towards His purposes within the burgeoning Christian movement in Rome.
Paul's inclusion of Persis in this list of greetings, alongside other notable figures like Priscilla and Aquila ([[Romans 16:3]]), Mary ([[Romans 16:6]]), and Tryphaena and Tryphosa ([[Romans 16:12]]), underscores her significant and recognized contribution to the church. Her commendation for "hard work" suggests a level of dedication and activity that was particularly noteworthy, perhaps in evangelism, teaching, hospitality, or practical service, making her an esteemed member of the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
While Περσίς (Persís) itself is a proper noun with no direct lexical relatives in the New Testament, its context connects it to several important concepts:
* **Labor/Toil (κοπιάω - `{{G2872}}`):** The verb used to describe Persis's activity is central to understanding her contribution. It speaks of diligent, often sacrificial, effort in ministry. This concept is frequently applied to those who invest themselves deeply in the work of the gospel.
* **Fellow Workers (συνεργός - `{{G4904}}`):** Paul frequently refers to his associates in ministry as "fellow workers." Though not explicitly called a συνεργός, Persis's "hard work in the Lord" places her squarely among those who partnered with Paul in advancing the kingdom.
* **Women in Ministry:** Persis stands as another testament, alongside Phoebe ([[Romans 16:1]]), Priscilla ([[Romans 16:3]]), Mary ([[Romans 16:6]]), and Tryphaena and Tryphosa ([[Romans 16:12]]), to the active and indispensable role played by women in the early Christian church. Their contributions were not peripheral but foundational, often involving significant labor and leadership.
* **Apostolic Greetings:** The entire sixteenth chapter of Romans exemplifies Paul's pastoral practice of acknowledging and honoring individuals within the churches he served or intended to visit. These greetings are not mere formalities but sincere expressions of appreciation and solidarity, affirming the value of each member's service.
### Theological Significance
The brief mention of Persis carries profound theological significance:
* **Divine Recognition of Individual Service:** Paul's specific commendation of Persis highlights God's notice and appreciation for the dedicated labor of every individual within the Body of Christ. It underscores that all genuine service, however seemingly small or unseen by human eyes, is valued and remembered by God. This encourages faithfulness in all forms of ministry.
* **The Nature of "Work in the Lord":** Persis's example defines Christian labor not as mere human effort, but as activity undertaken "in the Lord" – empowered by Him, directed by His will, and oriented toward His glory. Such work is inherently spiritual and contributes to the building up of His kingdom.
* **Affirmation of Women's Ministry:** The commendation of Persis as one who "worked hard in the Lord" provides further biblical evidence for the active and significant participation of women in the mission and life of the early church. Her example, alongside others in [[Romans 16]], refutes any notion that women were relegated to passive roles; rather, they were vital co-laborers in the gospel.
* **The Importance of Community and Encouragement:** Paul's detailed greetings, including that to Persis, demonstrate a pastoral heart that values and affirms the contributions of individuals. This practice fosters unity, strengthens bonds within the community, and provides encouragement for continued faithfulness and service.
### Summary
Περσίς (Persís) is a feminine proper name appearing once in the New Testament, in [[Romans 16:12]]. She is commended by the Apostle Paul for her exceptional and diligent "hard work in the Lord" (τὴν κοπιῶσαν ἐν κυρίῳ). This singular mention underscores the divine value placed on individual, consecrated labor within the Christian community, regardless of public prominence. Persis serves as a quiet but powerful testament to the active and indispensable role of women in the early church's ministry and mission, affirming that all sincere efforts for Christ are recognized and appreciated by God. Her inclusion in Paul's greetings also exemplifies his pastoral care and the importance of mutual encouragement among believers.
TRV