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γνώστης (gnōstēs)

gnōstēs

expert in

G1109 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun gnōstēs refers to a person who possesses deep knowledge or expertise in a specific area. Derived from the verb ginōskō, which means "to know," this term identifies someone as an expert or connoisseur rather than merely an acquaintance. It denotes a high level of proficiency and understanding.

In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Acts 26:3. The Jewish king Agrippa addresses the Apostle Paul with it, acknowledging his familiarity with Jewish customs and controversies. This single usage highlights how the term can carry a tone of professional respect, recognizing an individual’s specialized insight into complex matters.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word gnōstēs describes someone who is an expert, a specialist with deep knowledge in a particular field. In Acts 26:3, King Agrippa uses this term to acknowledge Paul’s thorough understanding of Jewish laws and customs. This recognition highlights the value of dedicated study and the respect that comes from genuine expertise.

For your faith journey, this reminds us that God often works through those who take their learning seriously. Whether you are studying Scripture or navigating complex life questions, your commitment to understanding brings clarity and credibility. It encourages you to pursue knowledge with humility, knowing that true insight serves others well.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • acquainted1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • γνώστην1×

Key Verses

  • Acts 26:3
    especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.

    Agrippa uses this term to acknowledge Paul's specialized knowledge of Jewish customs, setting the stage for his defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word gnōstēs mean?

It refers to an expert or connoisseur who possesses deep, specialized knowledge in a specific area. It goes beyond simple acquaintance to denote professional proficiency and understanding.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears only once in the New Testament, in Acts 26:3. King Agrippa uses it to describe Paul’s familiarity with Jewish customs and controversies.

How is gnōstēs different from general knowledge?

While general knowledge might be broad, gnōstēs implies a high level of expertise and mastery. It suggests someone who has deeply studied a subject and can speak with authority on it.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Acts 1 verse
Acts 26:3

especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me…