### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Χουζᾶς (Chouzâs, `{{G5529}}`) is a proper noun, serving as the name of a specific individual. Its base definition indicates an "uncertain origin," meaning its etymological roots do not provide further semantic depth beyond identifying a person. As a personal name, its semantic range is limited to denoting this particular individual, Chuza, who is further identified in the biblical text by his association with Herod and his role as a steward. Therefore, the core meaning is simply the identification of a historical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Chuza (Χουζᾶς, `{{G5529}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke:
* [[Luke 8:3]]: "and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their means."
In this singular occurrence, Chuza is identified as "Herod's steward" (οἰκονόμος, `{{G3623}}`). His significance in the narrative is primarily through his wife, Joanna, who is listed among the women who followed Jesus and financially supported His ministry. The context of [[Luke 8:1-3]] describes a group of women who traveled with Jesus and the twelve disciples, ministering to them. Joanna's inclusion is particularly notable given her husband's high-ranking position within the household of Herod Antipas, the tetrarch who had imprisoned and executed John the Baptist, and who would later interrogate Jesus. Chuza himself is not depicted as a follower of Jesus, nor does he play an active role in the narrative. His mention serves to establish Joanna's social standing and the remarkable nature of her commitment to Christ, considering her proximity to the secular and often hostile power structure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related concept to Chuza (Χουζᾶς, `{{G5529}}`) is the term for his office: "steward" (οἰκονόμος, `{{G3623}}`). This word denotes a manager, administrator, or household overseer, implying a position of trust and responsibility, often involving financial management. Chuza's role as "Herod's steward" (τοῦ ἐπιτρόπου Ἡρῴδου) connects him directly to the political authority of Herod Antipas (Ἡρῴδης, `{{G2264}}`).
Other related figures and concepts include:
* **Joanna** (Ἰωάννα, `{{G2490}}`): Chuza's wife, who is a prominent female disciple and supporter of Jesus. Her faith and actions stand in stark contrast to the worldly power structure her husband served.
* **Women who supported Jesus' ministry**: Chuza's household, through Joanna, indirectly participated in the financial support of Jesus and His disciples. This group of women, including Mary Magdalene and Susanna, highlights the diverse social strata from which Jesus drew His followers.
* **The Kingdom of God vs. Earthly Kingdoms**: The presence of Joanna, a woman from Herod's inner circle, among Jesus' followers subtly underscores the pervasive reach of the Gospel and the contrast between allegiance to earthly rulers and allegiance to the King of Kings.
### Theological Significance
While Chuza (Χουζᾶς, `{{G5529}}`) is a minor figure, his brief mention carries significant theological weight. His identity as "Herod's steward" provides a powerful backdrop for understanding the radical nature of his wife Joanna's discipleship.
1. **The Pervasiveness of the Gospel**: The fact that a woman from Herod's court, a place often associated with corruption and opposition to divine truth, would become a devoted follower of Jesus, demonstrates the Gospel's ability to penetrate all social strata and unexpected places. It illustrates that God's call transcends political affiliations, social status, and personal history.
2. **Radical Discipleship**: Joanna's commitment to following Jesus and supporting His ministry, despite her husband's position, speaks to a profound personal transformation. Her actions would have been highly unusual and potentially risky given the political climate. Chuza's name thus serves to highlight Joanna's courageous and uncompromising faith.
3. **God's Use of Diverse Instruments**: The inclusion of Chuza's wife among Jesus' benefactors showcases God's sovereign plan to use individuals from all walks of life—even those connected to seemingly hostile environments—to advance His Kingdom. It reminds us that God's work is not limited by human expectations or social boundaries.
4. **Contrast of Loyalties**: The implicit contrast between Chuza's service to an earthly king (Herod) and Joanna's service to the King of Kings (Jesus) subtly emphasizes the divergent allegiances that the coming of the Kingdom of God provoked.
### Summary
Chuza (Χουζᾶς, `{{G5529}}`) is a proper noun identifying a historical figure mentioned once in the New Testament as "Herod's steward" ([[Luke 8:3]]). His primary significance lies not in his own actions, but in providing the social context for his wife, Joanna, who was a prominent and devoted follower of Jesus and a financial supporter of His ministry. The mention of Chuza's high office within Herod's court underscores the remarkable and radical nature of Joanna's discipleship, demonstrating the pervasive reach of the Gospel into unexpected places and the diverse backgrounds of those who responded to Jesus' call. This brief reference serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the way God uses individuals from all walks of life to fulfill His purposes.
TRV