### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Póplios**, represented by `{{G4196}}`, is a Roman name of Latin origin, apparently meaning **"popular"**. It is recorded in scripture as Publius and appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**. This name identifies a specific individual, the "chief man of the island," who plays a brief but important role in the narrative of the apostle Paul's journey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Publius `{{G4196}}` is introduced as the **chief man** `{{G4413}}` of the **island** `{{G3520}}` where Paul was shipwrecked [[Acts 28:7]]. He demonstrated hospitality by receiving Paul and his companions, and he **lodged us** `{{G3579}}` **courteously** `{{G5390}}` for **three** `{{G5140}}` days. The account then reveals that the **father** `{{G3962}}` of Publius was suffering from a **fever** `{{G4446}}` and a **bloody flux** `{{G1420}}`. In response, **Paul** `{{G3972}}` **entered in** `{{G1525}}`, **prayed** `{{G4336}}`, and **healed** `{{G2390}}` him by laying his **hands** `{{G5495}}` upon him [[Acts 28:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide detail to the account of Publius `{{G4196}}`:
* `{{G4413}}` **prōtos** (chief(-est), first): This word establishes Publius's high rank as the **chief man** of the island, highlighting his authority and influence [[Acts 28:7]].
* `{{G3579}}` **xenízō** (entertain, lodge): This verb describes the hospitality Publius extended to Paul and his companions, as he **lodged** them for three days [[Acts 28:7]].
* `{{G1420}}` **dysentería** (bloody flux): This medical term specifies one of the afflictions of Publius's father, giving a clear picture of his severe illness [[Acts 28:8]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (heal, make whole): This word marks the divine intervention that occurred, as Paul prayed and **healed** Publius's father [[Acts 28:8]].
### Theological Significance
The brief account of Publius `{{G4196}}` carries theological weight, illustrating key principles of the Christian faith in action.
* **Kindness and Divine Reciprocity:** Publius's decision to **courteously** `{{G5390}}` receive and lodge Paul's group [[Acts 28:7]] precedes the miraculous healing of his father. This sequence highlights how acts of hospitality toward God's messengers can open the door for divine blessing.
* **The Power of God Among Gentiles:** The healing of a prominent Roman's father from a severe illness like **fever** `{{G4446}}` and **bloody flux** `{{G1420}}` served as a powerful testimony. The event demonstrates that God's power to **heal** `{{G2390}}` is not confined to any single people group.
* **Ministry through Prayer and Touch:** Paul's method of healing—through prayer `{{G4336}}` and the laying on of **hands** `{{G5495}}`—is a tangible model of apostolic ministry, where faith is expressed through direct, personal action [[Acts 28:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4196}}` **Póplios** is not a theological term but the name of a historical individual, Publius, whose encounter with the apostle Paul is recorded in scripture. His identity as the **chief man** `{{G4413}}` of the island provides the context for his significant act of hospitality. The story serves as a concise example of how kindness shown to God's servants can result in a powerful demonstration of God's healing power, extending divine grace beyond cultural and social boundaries.
TRV