### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Stáchys**, represented by `{{G4720}}`, is the name of a Christian. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a specific individual rather than a general concept. The base definition identifies the word as the proper name Stachys.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G4720}}` is found in the closing greetings of Paul's letter to the Romans. In this passage, Paul asks the believers to "Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and **Stachys** my beloved" [[Romans 16:9]]. Here, Stachys is mentioned in the context of personal salutations, listed alongside another Christian named Urbanus, and is distinguished by the affectionate term "my beloved."
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Stachys's mention connects him to several key terms that describe relationships within the early church:
* `{{G27}}` **agapētós** (beloved): This term is used by Paul to describe his personal affection for Stachys, calling him "my **beloved**" [[Romans 16:9]]. It is a common term of endearment among believers ([[James 1:19]], [[1 John 4:1]]).
* `{{G782}}` **aspázomai** (salute): This is the instruction given concerning Stachys. It signifies a greeting, welcome, or embrace, and is frequently used in the epistles to convey fellowship and goodwill ([[Romans 16:21]], [[Colossians 4:10]]).
* `{{G3773}}` **Ourbanós** (Urbanus): The name of the Christian greeted immediately before Stachys in the same verse [[Romans 16:9]].
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (co-laborer): While this term is used to describe Urbanus ("our **helper**"), its placement next to Stachys highlights the environment of collaborative ministry and fellowship they were both a part of [[Romans 16:9]].
### Theological Significance
While the name Stachys itself does not carry theological weight, its inclusion in scripture is significant.
* **Personal Affection:** The specific designation of Stachys as "my **beloved**" `{{G27}}` demonstrates the deep, personal bonds that characterized the early Christian community, moving beyond mere association to genuine love.
* **Valued Membership:** Stachys is named alongside a **co-laborer** `{{G4904}}` like Urbanus, showing that individuals with different roles and relationships to Paul were all considered important members of the body of Christ.
* **Fellowship and Greeting:** The command to **salute** `{{G782}}` Stachys underscores the biblical practice of acknowledging and welcoming fellow believers, reinforcing the unity and community central to the faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4720}}` **Stáchys** is a name whose importance is derived entirely from its single context in [[Romans 16:9]]. While little is known about the man himself, his mention serves as a permanent record of an individual who was personally loved by the Apostle Paul. His inclusion alongside a "helper in Christ" illustrates the value placed on fellowship, personal relationships, and the contribution of every believer within the early church.