### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Póntios**, represented by `{{G4194}}`, is of Latin origin and identifies a specific Roman individual. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself means Pontius, a Roman, and is always used to refer to the same historical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4194}}` is used to pinpoint a key official in the final events of Jesus's life. He is identified as **Pontius** Pilate, the governor of Judaea during the reign of Tiberius Caesar [[Luke 3:1]]. Jesus was delivered to **Pontius** Pilate after being bound [[Matthew 27:2]]. This encounter is framed as a pivotal moment where Jesus **witnessed** a good confession before **Pontius** Pilate [[1 Timothy 6:13]]. His role is also noted in a prayer that recalls how Herod and **Pontius** Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, gathered together against Jesus [[Acts 4:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding **Póntios**:
* `{{G4091}}` **Pilâtos**: This is the surname always associated with Pontius, meaning "close-pressed, i.e. firm; Pilatus, a Roman." The two names appear together in all four instances, such as when he is named as governor of Judaea [[Luke 3:1]].
* `{{G2232}}` **hēgemṓn**: This word for "governor" defines his official Roman title as "a leader, i.e. chief person (or figuratively, place) of a province." Jesus was delivered to Pontius Pilate the **governor** [[Matthew 27:2]].
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi**: This verb, meaning "to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit," describes the action taken toward Jesus, who was **delivered** to Pontius Pilate [[Matthew 27:2]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4194}}` carries significant historical and theological weight.
* **Historical Anchor:** The name **Pontius**, alongside figures like `{{G5086}}` **Tibérios** Caesar and `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs**, firmly places the events of Jesus's ministry and passion within a specific, recorded period of Roman history [[Luke 3:1]].
* **Instrument of Judgment:** As the Roman **governor** `{{G2232}}`, he represents the worldly authority to whom Jesus is **delivered** `{{G3860}}` for judgment, fulfilling a critical role in the narrative of the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:2]].
* **Context for Confession:** The presence of **Pontius** Pilate provides the official setting before which Christ Jesus **witnessed** `{{G3140}}` "a good confession," establishing a key moment of testimony [[1 Timothy 6:13]].
* **Conspirator Against the Anointed:** He is explicitly named with other powers as one who "gathered together" against God's holy child Jesus, whom God had **anointed** `{{G5548}}`, showing the opposition of earthly rulers to divine purpose [[Acts 4:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4194}}` serves as a crucial historical signifier within the New Testament. The name **Póntios** is inseparably linked with Pilate, identifying the Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus. His inclusion in the text grounds the Gospel accounts in secular history, establishes the legal authority under which Jesus was condemned, and provides the backdrop for one of Jesus’s most important testimonies. Thus, the name is integral to the passion narrative.
TRV