Φίλιππος

Philip

Definition

Φίλιππος (Philip) refers to three distinct individuals in the New Testament. First, it denotes Philip the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus (Matthew 10:3, Mark 3:18), who notably brought Nathanael to Jesus (John 1:43-48) and was approached by Greeks seeking Jesus (John 12:20-22). Second, it refers to Philip the Evangelist, one of the seven deacons appointed in Jerusalem (Acts 6:5) who later preached in Samaria and to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:4-40). Third, it identifies Philip the Tetrarch, a ruler and son of Herod the Great who governed the regions of Ituraea and Trachonitis (Luke 3:1).

Biblical Usage

The name is used 36 times across the Gospels, Acts, and Luke's historical introduction. In the Gospels (e.g., Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), it primarily refers to Philip the Apostle, often listed among the twelve. In Acts, it exclusively refers to Philip the Evangelist and his missionary work (Acts 6:5, 8:5-40, 21:8). The historical reference to Philip the Tetrarch appears only in Luke 3:1, establishing the political context of John the Baptist's ministry. The usage is always as a proper name for these specific individuals.

Etymology

The name Φίλιππος (Philippos) is a compound of two Greek words: φίλος (philos, G5384) meaning 'friend' or 'lover,' and ἵππος (hippos, G2462) meaning 'horse.' Thus, it literally means 'lover of horses.' It was a common royal name in ancient Macedonia, most famously borne by Alexander the Great's father. In the biblical context, it carries no inherent meaning about the individual's character but reflects Hellenistic naming conventions of the period.

Semantic Range

The Philips in the New Testament highlight key themes of discipleship and mission. Philip the Apostle models bringing others to Christ (John 1:45-46). Philip the Evangelist exemplifies the spread of the gospel beyond Jerusalem, first to Samaritans (a marginalized group) and then to a Gentile foreign official (Acts 8), demonstrating the inclusive nature of the early church's mission as commanded in Acts 1:8. Understanding that these are distinct individuals clarifies the narrative threads in the Gospels and Acts.

'Philip' was a prestigious Greek name associated with royalty and military prowess (via 'horse'), reflecting the pervasive Hellenistic culture in the Roman Empire. Its use by Jewish individuals (the Apostle and Evangelist) indicates the cultural blending of the time. The name itself would have conveyed no religious meaning but simply identified the person. The political figure, Philip the Tetrarch, bears a name fitting his Herodian family's practice of using Greco-Roman names to maintain favor with their rulers.

There are no direct synonyms, as it is a proper name. However, related titles include: ἀπόστολος (apostolos, G652) — 'apostle,' a title held by Philip the Apostle; and εὐαγγελιστής (euangelistēs, G2099) — 'evangelist,' a role fulfilled by Philip in Acts 21:8.

Word Details

Scripture References