### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Barsabâs**, represented by `{{G923}}`, is a surname of Chaldee origin meaning "son of Sabas." It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This name is assigned to two different Israelites who held positions of note within the early Christian community as documented in the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G923}}` is used to identify two key figures. The first is **Joseph called Barsabas**, who was also **surnamed** Justus. He was one of **two** men **appointed** by the disciples as a candidate to replace Judas Iscariot among the apostles [[Acts 1:23]]. The second figure is **Judas surnamed Barsabas**, who was recognized as a **chief man** among the **brethren** [[Acts 15:22]]. He was **chosen** by the **apostles** and **elders** in Jerusalem to travel with **Paul** and **Barnabas** to deliver a message to the church in **Antioch**.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles of the men named **Barsabas**:
* `{{G1941}}` **epikaléomai** (surnamed): This verb, which means to entitle or call upon, is used to apply the surname **Barsabas** in both occurrences, identifying Joseph and Judas respectively ([[Acts 1:23]], [[Acts 15:22]]).
* `{{G2476}}` **hístēmi** (appointed): Meaning to present or set up, this word describes how the disciples put forward Joseph **Barsabas** and Matthias as the two candidates for the apostolic position [[Acts 1:23]].
* `{{G1586}}` **eklégomai** (chosen): This word, meaning to select, describes the action of the Jerusalem **church** in choosing Judas **Barsabas** to be **sent** as a trusted representative to the believers in **Antioch** [[Acts 15:22]].
* `{{G2233}}` **hēgéomai** (chief): This term identifies Judas **Barsabas** as a leader or "chief man" among the brethren, indicating his respected status within the Jerusalem community [[Acts 15:22]].
### Theological Significance
The name `{{G923}}` is associated with individuals who illustrate important principles of the early church.
* **Worthy Candidacy:** Joseph **Barsabas** was one of only **two** men considered qualified to be **appointed** to the office of an apostle, demonstrating his respected standing and faithfulness within the nascent Christian community [[Acts 1:23]].
* **Recognized Leadership:** Judas **Barsabas** is explicitly called a "**chief** man," signifying that the early **church** recognized and esteemed certain individuals for their leadership qualities and spiritual maturity [[Acts 15:22]].
* **Trusted Messenger:** The selection of Judas **Barsabas** to accompany **Paul** and deliver the Jerusalem council's decision highlights the vital role of being a trusted emissary. His mission was crucial for maintaining unity and clarity between different church communities [[Acts 15:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G923}}` is more than just a name; it represents two distinct individuals of high standing in the early church. While Joseph **Barsabas** was a worthy candidate for the apostolate, Judas **Barsabas** was a recognized leader entrusted with a crucial mission. The two occurrences of this name provide a glimpse into the structure of the early church, highlighting the importance of respected leaders and trusted messengers in its foundation and expansion.
TRV