### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ἀρέτας (Arétas)**, represented by `{{G702}}`, is a proper name of foreign origin referring to **Aretas**, an Arabian. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific historical figure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G702}}` appears in a single, specific historical account. The apostle Paul recounts that in Damascus, the governor serving under **Aretas** the king guarded the city with a garrison with the intent to capture him [[2 Corinthians 11:32]]. This places **Aretas** as a political authority whose actions directly impacted Paul's early ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this event:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): This term, defined as "a sovereign," is used to identify the official rank of **Aretas**, establishing his royal authority in the region [[2 Corinthians 11:32]].
* `{{G1481}}` **ethnárchēs** (governor): This word describes the official acting under Aretas, "the governor (not king) of a district," who was tasked with controlling the city of Damascus [[2 Corinthians 11:32]].
* `{{G5432}}` **phrouréō** (keep with a garrison): This verb, meaning "to mount guard as a sentinel," describes the action taken by the governor under the authority of **Aretas** to prevent Paul's escape [[2 Corinthians 11:32]].
### Theological Significance
The brief mention of `{{G702}}` carries significance within the biblical narrative:
* **Earthly Authority:** The appearance of **Aretas** as a `{{G935}}` **king** illustrates the secular and sometimes hostile political powers that the apostles faced. His authority was used in an attempt to apprehend Paul [[2 Corinthians 11:32]].
* **Narrative of Persecution:** The incident involving **Aretas**'s governor is a key example of the persecution experienced by early Christians, highlighting the tangible dangers associated with the spread of the gospel.
* **Contrast in Power:** The garrison `{{G5432}}` set by **Aretas** was intended to trap and capture [[2 Corinthians 11:32]]. In contrast, the same word is used to show how believers are **kept** by God's power for salvation [[1 Peter 1:5]] and how God's peace will **keep** their hearts and minds [[Philippians 4:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G702}}` **Aretas** is a specific historical figure, an Arabian king, mentioned once in scripture. His role in the narrative is that of a regional authority whose governor sought to arrest the apostle Paul in Damascus. While his appearance is brief, the context surrounding his name illustrates the opposition faced by the early church from worldly powers and provides a point of contrast with the themes of divine protection found elsewhere in scripture.
TRV