### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek name **Arístarchos**, represented by `{{G708}}`, means **best ruling**. It identifies a specific individual, a Macedonian, who appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. His story is deeply connected to the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Aristarchus is consistently portrayed as a loyal associate of Paul. He is identified as a Macedonian from Thessalonica [[Acts 27:2]] and one of Paul's **companions in travel** `{{G4898}}`. During a riot in Ephesus, he and Gaius were caught by the confused mob and rushed into the theatre [[Acts 19:29]]. He is also listed as one of the men who **accompanied** `{{G4902}}` Paul into Asia [[Acts 20:4]]. Paul's personal affection for him is clear when he refers to Aristarchus as his **fellowprisoner** `{{G4869}}` in his letter to the Colossians [[Colossians 4:10]] and as one of his **fellowlabourers** `{{G4904}}` in his letter to Philemon [[Philemon 1:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words define the role of Aristarchus and his connection to Paul's ministry:
* `{{G4898}}` **synékdēmos** (a co-absentee from home, i.e. fellow-traveller): This word explicitly establishes him as one of Paul's **companions in travel**, sharing in the journeys far from his Macedonian home [[Acts 19:29]].
* `{{G4902}}` **synépomai** (to attend (travel) in company with): Reinforcing his role as a travel partner, this verb is used to state that Aristarchus **accompanied** Paul and others [[Acts 20:4]].
* `{{G4869}}` **synaichmálōtos** (a co-captive): A powerful descriptor used by Paul, this term identifies Aristarchus as a **fellowprisoner**, indicating they shared confinement for their faith [[Colossians 4:10]].
* `{{G4904}}` **synergós** (a co-laborer, i.e. coadjutor): This title elevates Aristarchus from a mere travel companion to an active partner in the gospel, listing him among Paul's **fellowlabourers** [[Philemon 1:24]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative importance of `{{G708}}` Aristarchus is seen in his unwavering commitment to Paul through severe trials.
* **Loyalty in Crisis:** Aristarchus did not abandon Paul during times of danger. He was with him during the riot in Ephesus and on the perilous sea voyage toward Rome, demonstrating steadfast loyalty ([[Acts 19:29]], [[Acts 27:2]]).
* **Shared Suffering:** The designation **fellowprisoner** `{{G4869}}` is not merely symbolic. It points to a literal, shared experience of imprisonment, marking Aristarchus as someone who partook in Paul's sufferings for Christ [[Colossians 4:10]].
* **Active Ministry Partner:** As a **fellowlabourer** `{{G4904}}`, Aristarchus was an integral part of Paul's team. This title shows he was recognized as a co-worker and helper in the advancement of the gospel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G708}}` **Arístarchos** exemplifies the qualities of a faithful companion and dedicated partner in ministry. The titles applied to him—**companion in travel**, **fellowprisoner**, and **fellowlabourer**—paint a vivid picture of a man who shared not only in Paul's journeys but also in his hardships and his gospel work. His few appearances in Scripture provide a powerful testament to loyalty and collaborative service in the early church.
TRV