Ἀνδρέας

Andrew

Definition

Ἀνδρέας (Andrew) is the Greek name of one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is consistently identified as the brother of Simon Peter (Matthew 4:18, John 1:40) and is originally from Bethsaida (John 1:44). In the Gospels, Andrew is often depicted in a role of introduction, most notably bringing his brother Simon to Jesus (John 1:40-42) and later bringing the boy with the loaves and fishes to Jesus before the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:8-9). His name appears in all four Gospels and the book of Acts in the lists of the apostles (e.g., Matthew 10:2, Acts 1:13).

Biblical Usage

The name Ἀνδρέας is used exclusively as a proper noun for the apostle Andrew. It appears in narrative contexts within the Gospels and Acts, primarily in three settings: in the calling narratives by the Sea of Galilee (Matthew 4:18, Mark 1:16), within the official lists of the twelve apostles (Mark 3:18, Luke 6:14), and in specific episodes involving Peter or the other disciples (Mark 1:29, John 12:22). A notable pattern is his frequent pairing with his more prominent brother, Peter.

Etymology

The name Ἀνδρέας is a Greek personal name derived from the noun ἀνήρ (anēr, G435), meaning 'man' or 'husband.' It is an adjective meaning 'manly' or 'courageous.' It is not derived from the prefix ἀ- (meaning 'not') as previously suggested. The name was common in the Greek-speaking world and reflects the Hellenistic cultural context of first-century Palestine.

Semantic Range

Andrew's role, while less prominent than Peter's, is theologically significant as a model of evangelism and discipleship. He is repeatedly shown bringing people to Jesus—first his brother (John 1:41-42), then others (John 12:20-22). This highlights the personal, relational nature of early Christian witness. Understanding that his name means 'manly' or 'courageous' enriches the reading of his actions, such as his immediate response to Jesus's call, which demonstrated a courageous faith.

As a Greek name borne by a Jewish fisherman, Ἀνδρέας reflects the Hellenistic influence in first-century Galilee. It was a common name, indicating the cultural blending of the period. His trade as a fisherman (Matthew 4:18) places him within the working class of Galilean society, which was often looked down upon by the religious elite in Jerusalem.

Πέτρος (Petros, G4074) — Andrew's brother, whose name means 'rock' and who became the leading apostle. Ἰωάννης (Iōannēs, G2491) — Another apostle, John, who was also a fisherman and part of the inner circle with Peter and James. Φίλιππος (Philippos, G5376) — A fellow apostle from Bethsaida (John 1:44, 12:21-22) with whom Andrew interacts.

Word Details

Scripture References