### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Ἀρέτας (Arétas, `{{G702}}`) is a proper noun, specifically the name of a historical individual. Unlike common nouns or verbs, it does not possess a broad semantic range but refers to a singular, identifiable person. The base definition indicates its "foreign origin" and identifies him as "an Arabian." Historically, this refers to Aretas IV Philopatris, who reigned as king of the Nabataean Kingdom from approximately 9 BC to AD 40. The name itself is likely derived from an Arabic or Nabataean root, signifying "virtuous" or "righteous," though its primary biblical significance lies in its identification of a specific historical figure rather than the etymology of the name itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Aretas appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's second letter to the Corinthians:
> "In Damascus the governor under King Aretas was guarding the city of Damascus in order to seize me," [[2 Corinthians 11:32]].
This verse provides a crucial historical anchor for understanding the chronology of Paul's early ministry. Paul recounts an attempt by the ethnarch (governor) under King Aretas to arrest him in Damascus. This event likely occurred shortly after Paul's conversion and initial ministry in Damascus, as described in [[Acts 9:19b-25]]. Historical sources confirm that Aretas IV was indeed the Nabataean king who, for a period, controlled Damascus, either directly or through an appointed ethnarch. This detail aligns the biblical narrative with external historical records, substantiating the historicity of Paul's account and providing a potential fixed point for dating his conversion and subsequent escape from Damascus. The mention of Aretas underscores the real-world dangers and political complexities faced by the early apostles.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a proper noun, Ἀρέτας (Arétas, `{{G702}}`) does not have direct linguistic cognates or synonyms within the biblical text. However, its occurrence is intimately linked to several significant concepts and historical entities:
* **Nabataean Kingdom/Arabs:** Aretas was the king of the Nabataeans, an ancient Arab people whose kingdom was centered around Petra. This connection highlights the diverse geopolitical landscape of the early Roman Empire and the spread of the Gospel beyond purely Jewish or Greco-Roman spheres.
* **Damascus:** The city where the event took place, a historically significant urban center that played a vital role in early Christian expansion.
* **Ethnarch:** The specific title of the official under Aretas, indicating a regional governor or administrator. This provides insight into the administrative structures of the time.
* **Paul's Persecution and Deliverance:** The mention of Aretas is part of Paul's broader narrative of suffering for the Gospel ([[2 Corinthians 11:23-33]]). It illustrates the constant threat and divine protection experienced by the apostles. This event, where Paul was lowered in a basket through a window, parallels an Old Testament narrative involving David ([[1 Samuel 19:11-17]]) and demonstrates God's consistent method of preserving His servants.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ἀρέτας (Arétas, `{{G702}}`) is not found in the name itself, but in its function within the inspired text.
1. **Historicity of Scripture:** The explicit mention of a historically verifiable king like Aretas grounds the biblical narrative in real-world events and figures. It serves as a powerful testament to the historical reliability of the New Testament, demonstrating that the events described are not mythical but occurred within a specific historical and geographical context. This detail allows for external corroboration, strengthening faith in the biblical account.
2. **Divine Providence and Protection:** Despite the efforts of King Aretas's ethnarch to seize Paul, the Apostle was miraculously delivered. This incident underscores God's sovereign hand in protecting His chosen instruments for the accomplishment of His divine purposes. Paul's escape was not accidental but part of God's plan to preserve him for his extensive missionary journeys and the writing of much of the New Testament.
3. **Apostolic Suffering and Perseverance:** The encounter with Aretas's forces is presented by Paul as one among many hardships endured for the sake of the Gospel. It highlights the reality of opposition faced by early believers and the unwavering commitment required to preach Christ amidst such perils. This account encourages believers to persevere in the face of adversity, trusting in God's ultimate deliverance.
### Summary
Ἀρέτας (Arétas, `{{G702}}`) is a proper Greek transliteration of the name of Aretas IV Philopatris, the Nabataean king who reigned from approximately 9 BC to AD 40. His single mention in [[2 Corinthians 11:32]] provides a crucial historical reference point, detailing an instance where Paul narrowly escaped arrest in Damascus by the king's ethnarch. This specific historical detail grounds the biblical narrative in verifiable history, affirming the historicity of Scripture. Theologically, the account serves as a powerful illustration of divine providence in protecting Paul for his ministry, and it underscores the reality of suffering and perseverance inherent in apostolic service. The name, though referring to an antagonist, ultimately highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His servants through challenging circumstances.
TRV