The Greek name Bartimaîos, represented by G924, is derived from Chaldee and means son of Timæus (or the unclean). This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse of scripture, identifying a specific Israelite man encountered during Jesus' ministry.
The single biblical occurrence of G924 is in Mark 10:46. In this narrative, as Jesus, his disciples G3101, and a great number of people G3793 went out of Jericho G2410, they encountered "blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus." He is depicted as being in a state of helplessness, as he sat G2521 by the highway side G3598 begging G4319. This verse establishes his identity, his physical condition, and his location at the time of his meeting with Jesus.
Several related words from the narrative provide a fuller context for the identity and situation of Bartimaeus:
- G5090 Timaîos (Timæus): This name, also of Chaldee origin, identifies the father of Bartimaeus. The text explicitly states Bartimaeus is "the son of Timaeus" Mark 10:46.
- G5207 huiós (son): This word defines the relationship, confirming that Bartimaeus's name signifies his lineage. It is the core of his identity in the passage Mark 10:46.
- G5185 typhlós (blind): This term describes his physical state of being blind. This condition is central to the narrative, as Jesus' ministry often involved giving sight to the blind Matthew 11:5.
- G4319 prosaitéō (beg): This describes his action, showing his dependence and social position. He is not just sitting, but actively begging by the roadside Mark 10:46.
The account of G924 carries significant weight by illustrating key theological concepts.
- A Picture of Need: Bartimaeus is presented as both blind G5185 and begging G4319, a physical state that reflects the spiritual condition of humanity described elsewhere as wretched, poor, and blind Revelation 3:17. Jesus' mission included bringing "recovering of sight to the blind" Luke 4:18.
- Identity in Sonship: The name itself, "son of Timaeus," highlights his human identity through his father Mark 10:46. This stands in the context of the New Testament's focus on Jesus as the divine Son G5207 of God, who offers a new identity to believers (John 3:16, Romans 8:29).
- Encounter with the Savior: The scene takes place as Jesus is on the way G3598, accompanied by his disciples G3101 and a multitude G3793. This places the personal plea of a single man into the larger narrative of the Son of Man coming "to seek and to save that which was lost" Luke 19:10.
In summary, G924 Bartimaîos is not merely a historical name but a figure rich with meaning. His singular appearance in scripture captures a moment of profound human need intersecting with divine power. Identified by his earthly father and his condition of blindness, his story is set within the public ministry of Jesus, providing a powerful illustration of the state from which humanity needs salvation and the hope found in the Son of God.
TRV