Δάμαρις (Damaris)
Damaris
Damaris
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Damaris is a proper name appearing only once in the New Testament, recorded in Acts 17:34. She is identified as an Athenian woman who believed after hearing the Apostle Paul preach at the Areopagus. The sources suggest her name likely derives from a Greek word meaning "heifer," though this etymology does not add narrative detail to the biblical account.
Her inclusion in the text highlights the diverse group of individuals who responded to Paul’s message in Athens. Along with Dionysius the Areopagite, she represents the small number of converts from that intellectual gathering. The brevity of her mention leaves her personal story unknown, but her faith is noted as a historical fact within the early church.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Damaris appears in Scripture as a single name, yet her presence carries weight. Acts 17:34 records her among those who believed after hearing Paul speak at the Areopagus. In a city known for its philosophers and debates, she chose to trust the message shared there.
Her brief mention reminds us that faith is not limited by gender, status, or background. The early church grew through diverse voices, each contributing to the spread of the gospel. We can find comfort in knowing that God values every seeker, regardless of how quietly they may appear in history.
This story invites reflection on our own responses to truth. Like Damaris, we too encounter moments where belief becomes action. May we remain open to such encounters, trusting that our steps forward are seen and valued by God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Damaris1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Δάμαρις1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 17:34
But certain men joined with him and believed, including Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
This verse highlights Damaris as one of the few Athenians who believed alongside Dionysius, showing that even in a highly intellectual setting, personal faith was possible.