Βλάστος (Blastos)
Blastos
Blastus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Blastus identifies a single historical figure mentioned in Acts 12:20, serving as the court official or chamberlain for King Herod Agrippa I. The sources suggest his name may derive from the same root as blastos, meaning "sprout" or "shoot," though in this context it functions strictly as a proper noun rather than a theological term.
His role places him at the center of a tense diplomatic moment when the people of Tyre and Sidon sought peace with the king. Blastus acted as the intermediary who facilitated their approach to Herod, highlighting his position of influence within the royal court. This brief appearance illustrates the administrative machinery behind ancient rulers, where key officials managed access to power.
As a one-verse occurrence, Blastus serves as a specific historical marker rather than a word with broad semantic range. His mention anchors the narrative in real political structures, showing how personal connections and court protocols influenced the events surrounding Herod’s death.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Blastus appears only once in Scripture, yet his brief mention reveals how God works through ordinary human structures. As Herod’s personal aide, he held the keys to access and influence. The people of Tyre and Sidon recognized this reality and made him their friend to secure peace. This shows that relationships matter deeply in our daily lives, whether we are navigating workplace dynamics or community needs.
We often overlook the quiet mediators who bridge gaps between opposing sides. Blastus reminds us that God can use any person, regardless of their spiritual standing, to fulfill His purposes. Even in tense political moments, human connection and diplomacy play a role in God’s broader plan. We can trust that He sees and works through every interaction, big or small.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Blastus1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Βλάστον1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 12:20
Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. They came with one accord to him and, having made Blastus, the king’s personal aide, their friend, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king’s country for food.
This verse highlights Blastus as the crucial intermediary whose friendship enabled the Tyrians to approach Herod for peace.