Πρίσκα

Πρίσκα

Prisca, Priscilla

Definition

Prisca (also called Priscilla) was a prominent early Christian woman, the wife of Aquila. She and her husband were Jewish Christians who worked as tentmakers alongside the apostle Paul (Acts 18:2-3). They are consistently mentioned together in the New Testament, often with Prisca's name listed first, which may indicate her significant role or social standing. The name Prisca is the formal Latin name, while Priscilla is a diminutive, affectionate form.

Biblical Usage

Prisca/Priscilla appears six times in the New Testament, always with her husband Aquila. They are mentioned in Acts 18:2, 18, 26; Romans 16:3; 1 Corinthians 16:19; and 2 Timothy 4:19. The couple is depicted as mobile, collaborative church leaders who hosted a house church, instructed others in the faith (like Apollos in Acts 18:26), and were coworkers with Paul, risking their lives for him (Romans 16:3-4).

Etymology

The name Πρίσκα (Priska) is a Latin loanword (Prisca) adopted into Greek. It is the feminine form of the Roman family name Priscus, meaning 'ancient,' 'venerable,' or 'of former times.' The diminutive form Πρίσκιλλα (Priskilla) adds an affectionate suffix.

Semantic Range

Prisca's example is theologically significant for understanding early church leadership and gender roles. Her consistent mention, often before her husband, and her active role in teaching and hosting the church (Romans 16:3-5) demonstrate that women held vital, recognized leadership positions in the apostolic era. Her partnership with Aquila models Christian marriage as a collaborative ministry. In the 1st-century Roman world, a woman being named alongside her husband, and sometimes first, was unusual and suggests Prisca came from a higher social status or possessed exceptional capability and reputation within the Christian community. As tentmakers, she and Aquila were part of the artisan class, which allowed them mobility and a platform for ministry across the Roman Empire. No direct synonyms, as this is a proper name.

Word Details