Δρούσιλλα

Drusilla

Definition

Δρούσιλλα (Drusilla) is a proper noun referring to a specific historical figure in the New Testament. She was the youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa I and a sister to Herod Agrippa II and Bernice. Drusilla was married to Felix, the Roman procurator of Judea, and is mentioned in the book of Acts as being present with Felix when the apostle Paul presented his defense (Acts 24:24). Her presence in the narrative highlights the political and social context of Paul's imprisonment and his witness before Roman and Herodian rulers.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 24:24. It appears in the context of a historical narrative, identifying Drusilla as the wife of Governor Felix, who was present with him to hear Paul speak about faith in Christ Jesus. The usage serves to provide specific historical detail and setting for Paul's legal proceedings.

Etymology

Δρούσιλλα is a Greek transliteration of the Latin name 'Drusilla'. It is a diminutive form of the Roman family name 'Drusus', which was prominent in the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The name itself does not carry a specific semantic meaning in Greek but functions solely as a personal identifier.

Semantic Range

While the name Drusilla itself is not theologically loaded, her presence in Acts 24:24 is theologically significant. She represents the Herodian dynasty, which was often in conflict with the early Christian movement (e.g., Herod Agrippa I's persecution in Acts 12). Her audience with Paul illustrates the gospel's reach into the highest levels of political and social power, fulfilling the mandate to be witnesses 'to the end of the earth' (Acts 1:8). Understanding her identity enriches the reading by showing Paul's faithfulness in testifying before influential, yet morally compromised, figures.

Drusilla was a member of the Herodian family, a client dynasty of Rome that ruled parts of Palestine. Her marriage to the Roman governor Felix was politically advantageous. As a Jewish woman married to a Gentile, her relationship likely violated Jewish law, illustrating the complex cultural and religious assimilation within the ruling class. Her presence signifies the elite, Romanized social circle that Paul addressed, contrasting with his primary mission to the common people.

Βερνίκη (Bernikē, G959) — Drusilla's sister, also mentioned in Acts as being with Herod Agrippa II (Acts 25:13, 23).

Word Details

Scripture References