### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Phēstos**, represented by `{{G5347}}`, is of Latin derivation and means **festal**. It refers to Porcius Festus, a Roman governor mentioned in the book of Acts. It appears **13 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively documenting his interactions with the Apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Festus `{{G5347}}` is introduced as the successor to the Roman governor Felix `{{G5344}}` [[Acts 24:27]]. Upon arriving in his province, he travels from Caesarea `{{G2542}}` to Jerusalem `{{G2414}}` [[Acts 25:1]]. There, the Jewish `{{G2453}}` leaders present their case against Paul, crying `{{G1916}}` that he ought not to live `{{G2198}}` [[Acts 25:24]]. Willing `{{G2309}}` to do the Jews `{{G2453}}` a pleasure `{{G5485}}`, Festus suggests Paul be judged `{{G2919}}` in Jerusalem [[Acts 25:9]]. This leads Paul to appeal unto `{{G1941}}` Caesar `{{G2541}}`, a right Festus acknowledges after conferring with his council `{{G4824}}` [[Acts 25:12]]. His role is primarily that of a legal arbiter caught between Jewish accusations and a Roman citizen's appeal to a higher authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The narrative of Festus `{{G5347}}` is closely connected to several other figures and legal actions:
* `{{G5344}}` **Phēlix**: The Roman governor whom Festus replaced. Felix, described as "happy," left Paul bound `{{G1210}}` to shew the Jews a pleasure `{{G5485}}`, creating the legal situation Festus inherited [[Acts 24:27]].
* `{{G2541}}` **Kaîsar**: This title for the Roman emperor is central to the proceedings. Paul's decision to appeal unto `{{G1941}}` Caesar forces Festus to send him to Rome, a turning point in the case ([[Acts 25:12]], [[Acts 26:32]]).
* `{{G1941}}` **epikaléomai**: Meaning to "invoke (for aid, worship, testimony, decision, etc.)". This is the legal action Paul takes, appealing to Caesar and fundamentally changing the jurisdiction of his case [[Acts 25:11]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris**: This word for "favour" or "pleasure" reveals the political motivations at play. Both Festus and his predecessor Felix were willing `{{G2309}}` to grant this to the Jews `{{G2453}}`, highlighting the pressure on Roman officials ([[Acts 24:27]], [[Acts 25:9]]).
### Theological Significance
The account of Festus `{{G5347}}` highlights several key dynamics:
* **Roman Law and Politics:** Festus's actions demonstrate the tension a Roman official faced. He is willing `{{G2309}}` to appease the influential Jewish `{{G2453}}` multitude `{{G4128}}` but is also bound by Roman law to honor Paul's appeal unto `{{G1941}}` Caesar `{{G2541}}` ([[Acts 25:9]], [[Acts 25:12]]).
* **A Clash of Worldviews:** During a hearing with King Agrippa, Festus declares that Paul's much `{{G4183}}` learning `{{G1121}}` is making him mad `{{G3105}}` [[Acts 26:24]]. This exclamation reveals his inability to comprehend the spiritual realities Paul is describing, which Paul counters are "words of truth and soberness" [[Acts 26:25]].
* **Instrument of Divine Purpose:** Although acting according to his own judgment and political pressures, Festus becomes the instrument through which Paul is sent to Rome. By accepting Paul's appeal, Festus facilitates the next stage of the apostle's mission [[Acts 25:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5347}}` **Phēstos** is more than just a name; he is a pivotal, if brief, character in the unfolding of apostolic history. As a Roman governor, his story is a case study in the administration of provincial justice under the Roman Empire. His interactions with Paul, particularly his decision to send him to Caesar `{{G2541}}`, and his dismissal of Paul's testimony as madness `{{G3130}}`, underscore the conflict between worldly power and spiritual truth. Festus's role demonstrates how even secular authorities and political maneuvering can serve to advance the course of the gospel.
TRV