Ζηνᾶς

Zenas

Definition

Zenas is a proper noun referring to a specific individual mentioned in the New Testament. He is identified as a lawyer (νομικός, nomikos) in Titus 3:13, where the Apostle Paul instructs Titus to assist him and Apollos on their journey. The name itself is a personal identifier and does not carry multiple senses or meanings beyond designating this person. The single biblical occurrence provides all the known information about him.

Biblical Usage

The name Ζηνᾶς is used only once in the New Testament, in Titus 3:13. In this context, Paul is giving final instructions to Titus, urging him to diligently help Zenas and Apollos on their travels. The usage is purely referential, identifying a person who was apparently a co-worker or associate in ministry, known to both Paul and Titus.

Etymology

Ζηνᾶς (Zēnas) is a Greek masculine proper name, a shortened form or derivative of names like Ζηνόδοτος (Zēnodotos, 'given by Zeus') or Ζηνόβιος (Zēnobios, 'life of Zeus'). It is derived from Ζεύς (Zeus), the name of the chief god in the Greek pantheon. Its use as a personal name was common in the Hellenistic world, regardless of the individual's religious beliefs.

Semantic Range

The name Zenas, meaning 'of Zeus', reflects the common Hellenistic practice of using theophoric names (names incorporating a deity's name). Many early Christians bore such names from their pagan cultural background (e.g., Dionysius, Acts 17:34). His identification as a 'lawyer' (νομικός) likely means he was an expert in Mosaic Law (a Jewish scribe) or possibly a Roman jurist; the context of Titus suggests the former is more probable, indicating he was a Jewish Christian convert.

There are no direct synonyms for this proper name. Related identifiers in the same verse include: Ἀπολλώς (Apollōs, G625) — another named individual and fellow worker.

Word Details

Scripture References