### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Saûlos**, represented by `{{G4569}}`, is the Jewish name of Paul. It appears **17 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. The name, of Hebrew origin, is used exclusively in the book of Acts to identify the man who would later be known as the apostle Paul, particularly during his early life as a persecutor of the church and through his dramatic conversion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4569}}` is initially introduced as an antagonist to the early Christian community. He was **consenting** to the death of Stephen [[Acts 8:1]] and was present when the witnesses laid their clothes at his feet [[Acts 7:58]]. He actively **made havock** of the church, entering houses and haling men and women to prison [[Acts 8:3]]. His zeal is described as "**breathing out** threatenings and slaughter" against the Lord's disciples [[Acts 9:1]]. His pivotal moment occurs on the road to Damascus, after which a blinded Saul must be **led by the hand** into the city [[Acts 9:8]]. The Lord then commands Ananias to seek him, saying "enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth" [[Acts 9:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of Saul's life and transformation:
* `{{G1375}}` **diōgmós** (persecution): This term defines the "great **persecution** against the church" at Jerusalem, an event in which Saul was a central figure immediately following the death of Stephen [[Acts 8:1]].
* `{{G3075}}` **lymaínomai** (make havock of): This powerful verb captures the destructive intensity of Saul's actions, as he "**made havock** of the church" by imprisoning believers [[Acts 8:3]].
* `{{G1709}}` **empnéō** (to be animated by): This word vividly illustrates Saul's vehement opposition, describing him as "**breathing out** threatenings and slaughter" against the disciples [[Acts 9:1]].
* `{{G873}}` **aphorízō** (separate): This marks his new, divine purpose, as the Holy Ghost commands, "**Separate** me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them" [[Acts 13:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4569}}` is centered on the theme of divine transformation.
* **Persecutor to Apostle:** Saul's story is a primary biblical example of a life radically changed by grace. He moves from being one who was **consenting** to the death of believers [[Acts 8:1]] to being **separated** by the Holy Ghost for ministry [[Acts 13:2]].
* **The Sovereignty of God's Call:** Despite his violent history, Saul is specifically chosen by God. The Lord intervenes directly on the Damascus road and later the Holy Ghost **calls** him by name for missionary service [[Acts 13:2]].
* **From Opposition to Proclamation:** Before his conversion, Saul's strength was used to persecute the church [[Acts 9:1]]. Afterward, he **increased the more in strength** to confound opponents and prove that Jesus is the Christ [[Acts 9:22]].
* **A New Identity:** The transition from **Saul** to Paul is first mentioned in [[Acts 13:9]], signifying the shift from his former life to his new calling as an apostle to the Gentiles.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4569}}` represents more than just a name; it embodies one of the most dramatic transformations in Scripture. The name **Saul** is intrinsically linked to the identity of a zealous persecutor who becomes a chosen instrument for the very faith he sought to destroy. The narrative arc traces his journey from an enemy of the faith who **made havock** of the church [[Acts 8:3]] to a foundational leader **called** and set apart for the Lord's work [[Acts 13:2]], demonstrating the profound power of divine intervention and purpose.
TRV