### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Philólogos**, represented by `{{G5378}}`, is defined as being derived from φίλος (friend) and λόγος (word), meaning "fond of words," talkative, or learned. In its biblical usage, it serves as the proper name for a Christian man. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5378}}` is in the closing chapter of Romans, where Paul sends personal greetings to members of the church in Rome. In [[Romans 16:15]], Paul writes, "Salute **Philologus**, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them." This places Philologus within a specific group of believers, identified by name, who were part of the early Christian community.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other names and terms appear alongside Philologus, providing a clearer picture of his community:
* `{{G2456}}` **Ioulía**: Defined as "Julia, a Christian woman," she is greeted in the same breath as Philologus, suggesting a close connection [[Romans 16:15]].
* `{{G3517}}` **Nēreús**: A Christian man named "Nereus," he is also part of this specific group being greeted by Paul [[Romans 16:15]].
* `{{G79}}` **adelphḗ**: This word for "sister" is used to identify a female believer greeted along with her brother, Nereus [[Romans 16:15]].
* `{{G3652}}` **Olympâs**: The name of another Christian, "Olympas," included in this same fellowship [[Romans 16:15]].
* `{{G782}}` **aspázomai**: Meaning to "salute" or "greet," this is the specific action Paul requests be directed toward Philologus and his companions [[Romans 16:15]].
* `{{G40}}` **hágios**: Translated as "saint" or holy one, this term describes the larger group of believers associated with Philologus and the others mentioned [[Romans 16:15]].
### Theological Significance
The mention of `{{G5378}}` carries significance by illustrating the personal nature of the early church.
* **Communal Recognition:** Philologus is not an anonymous believer but is personally named by Paul, highlighting his recognized place within the Roman church.
* **Fellowship Group:** He is listed as part of a distinct group that includes Julia, Nereus, his sister, and Olympas, along with "all the saints which are with them." This suggests they likely formed a house church or a close fellowship unit [[Romans 16:15]].
* **Apostolic Salutation:** Receiving a direct greeting in an apostolic letter affirms the importance of these individuals and their group to Paul and the wider Christian mission.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5378}}` is a name that, while its definition means "fond of words," is used in scripture solely to identify a specific Christian man named **Philologus**. His single mention in [[Romans 16:15]] provides a valuable glimpse into the personal relationships and structure of the early church in Rome, showing him to be a known and valued member of a specific Christian fellowship greeted by the Apostle Paul.
TRV