### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **títlos**, represented by `{{G5102}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to a **title** or placard. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its highly specific application within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G5102}}` are found in the account of Jesus' crucifixion. Pilate **wrote** a **title** and had it **put** on the **cross** [[John 19:19]]. This placard explicitly stated the charge against Jesus, identifying him as "JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS." The significance of this act is emphasized by its visibility; the **title** was **read** by **many** of the **Jews**, as the **place** was **nigh** to the **city** and the inscription was **written** in **Hebrew**, **Greek**, and **Latin** [[John 19:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the use of **títlos**:
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to "grave", especially to write): This word is directly linked to the creation of the **title**, as it was Pilate who **wrote** the inscription for the cross [[John 19:19]].
* `{{G4716}}` **staurós** (a stake or post... a pole or cross): This defines the location where the **title** was displayed, upon the **cross** itself, turning an instrument of execution into a place of proclamation [[John 19:19]].
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (a sovereign... king): This word is central to the message on the placard, which declared Jesus as the **King** of the **Jews** [[John 19:19]].
* `{{G2453}}` **Ioudaîos** (Judæan... Jew): This term identifies both the subjects of Jesus' proclaimed kingship and the primary audience who **read** the **title** [[John 19:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5102}}` is centered on its function as a formal declaration.
* **Public Proclamation:** Placed on the **cross** by Roman authority, the **title** served as a public, official announcement of Jesus' identity to all who passed by [[John 19:20]].
* **Universal Witness:** By being **written** in **Hebrew**, **Greek**, and **Latin**, the languages of religion, culture, and Roman law, the **title** bore witness to Christ's kingship to the entire known world [[John 19:20]].
* **Ironic Enthronement:** In the moment of ultimate suffering and humiliation, the **title** officially proclaims Jesus' royal status. The charge used to condemn him becomes the declaration of his true identity as **King** [[John 19:19]].
### Summary
In summary, while **títlos** `{{G5102}}` is a rare term, its use is pivotal. It represents the official, multilingual, and public proclamation of Jesus' kingship at the very site of his execution. This simple placard, intended as an instrument of state-sanctioned shame, is transformed into a powerful testimony of Christ's sovereign identity, read by **many** and bearing witness to all nations.
TRV