### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stratopedárchēs**, represented by `{{G4759}}`, refers to a **ruler of an army** or, more specifically, a **captain of the guard**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This term identifies the high-ranking military official in Rome who took custody of prisoners, including the apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4759}}` occurs when Paul finally arrives in Rome. In the narrative, the `centurion` `{{G1543}}` who escorted the group `delivered` `{{G3860}}` the `prisoners` `{{G1198}}` to the **captain of the guard** [[Acts 28:16]]. This act signifies the formal transfer of custody to the central Roman authorities. Immediately following this handover, the text notes that `Paul` `{{G3972}}` received a special concession, as he `was suffered` `{{G2010}}` to `dwell` `{{G3306}}` by himself with a `soldier` `{{G4757}}` that kept him.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the military and legal context surrounding this term:
* `{{G1543}}` **hekatontárchēs** (centurion): This term refers to **the captain of one hundred men**. It was a centurion who delivered the prisoners to the higher-ranking **captain of the guard** upon arriving in Rome [[Acts 28:16]].
* `{{G1198}}` **désmios** (prisoner): Meaning **a captive (as bound)**, this word describes those who were handed over to the **captain of the guard**. Paul consistently identifies himself with this status, for example, as a `prisoner` of Jesus Christ [[Philemon 1:1]].
* `{{G4757}}` **stratiṓtēs** (soldier): This word for a **common warrior** is used for the guard assigned to keep Paul after he was processed by the **captain of the guard** [[Acts 28:16]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G4759}}` is tied to its specific context in the book of Acts.
* **Roman Authority:** The use of the term illustrates the structured chain of command within the Roman system. Paul, as a `prisoner` `{{G1198}}`, is formally transferred from the authority of a `centurion` `{{G1543}}` to the higher-ranking **captain of the guard** [[Acts 28:16]].
* **Paul's Arrival in Rome:** The official's appearance marks the culmination of Paul's long journey to Rome. The handover to the **captain of the guard** is the pivotal moment when his case is brought under the jurisdiction of the empire's central authorities [[Acts 28:16]].
* **Providential Care:** Despite being delivered to a high-ranking military jailer, Paul `was suffered` `{{G2010}}` a unique form of custody. This special arrangement occurs immediately after the transfer to the **captain of the guard**, setting the stage for his ministry in Rome [[Acts 28:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4759}}` is a specific title for a military commander, the **captain of the guard**. Its lone biblical appearance in [[Acts 28:16]] is a key narrative marker, establishing Paul’s arrival and transfer into the custody of Roman central command. The term highlights the formal military structure of the time and provides the context for the unique conditions of Paul’s subsequent imprisonment.
TRV