The Greek word Τιμαῖος (Timaîos), represented by G5090, is the proper name of an Israelite. The name is believed to be of Chaldee origin. This term is highly specific in its usage, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text, identifying a single individual.
The sole appearance of G5090 is in Mark 10:46. The passage describes Jesus and his disciples leaving the city of Jericho G2410 when they encounter a man identified as "blind G5185 Bartimaeus G924, the son G5207 of Timaeus G5090." This man "sat by the highway side begging G4319." The role of Timaeus in the narrative is exclusively to provide the patronymic identity for his son, Bartimaeus.
Several related words help to establish the context for Timaeus's only mention:
- G924 Bartimaîos (son of Timæus): This name, given to the son of Timaeus, literally incorporates the father's name, directly linking the two individuals. It is of Chaldee origin.
- G5207 huiós (a "son"): This term is used to explicitly state the relationship between Bartimaeus and Timaeus, defining Timaeus's role as a father Mark 10:46.
- G5185 typhlós (blind): This word describes the condition of Timaeus's son, which is central to the narrative in which he appears. It can refer to being blind physically or mentally.
- G4319 prosaitéō (to beg): This describes the action of the son of Timaeus, highlighting his position of dependency and need by the roadside Mark 10:46.
The significance of G5090 is derived entirely from the context of his son.
- Patronymic Identity: Timaeus is known to Scripture only as a father. The name of his son, Bartimaeus G924, meaning "son of Timæus," underscores that his identity is established through his son.
- Father of the Needy: As the father of a man who is both blind G5185 and begging G4319, Timaeus's family represents the state of human need that is a recurring focus of Jesus's ministry Luke 4:18.
- The Theme of Sonship: The word son G5207 is fundamental to the story. While Timaeus is a literal father, the concept of sonship carries immense theological weight throughout the New Testament, from identifying believers as conformed to the image of God's Son Romans 8:29 to defining Jesus as the only begotten Son of God John 3:16.
In summary, G5090 Timaeus is not a central figure but serves a crucial function in the biblical narrative. His name appears once to identify his son, Bartimaeus, a blind man found begging outside Jericho. The significance of Timaeus is therefore indirect, anchoring the identity of a man whose condition places him in the path of Jesus's ministry and highlighting the biblical themes of sonship and need.
TRV