Ἐπαίνετος (Epainetos)
Epainetos
Epaenetus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Epainetos is a proper noun found only once in the New Testament, in Romans 16:5. It identifies a specific individual, a Christian living in Rome whom the Apostle Paul greets warmly. The word itself is not used as a theological term or verb but serves strictly as a personal identifier within the early church community.
Etymologically, Epainetos derives from the Greek root for "praise," meaning "praiseworthy" or "highly esteemed." While the name carries this positive connotation, the biblical text does not elaborate on why this particular man was praised. Paul simply notes him as one of the first converts in Asia Minor who became a significant figure in the Roman church.
This single occurrence highlights how personal names in Scripture often preserve the identities of ordinary believers alongside major apostolic figures. By mentioning Epainetos, Paul affirms the value of individual members within the body of Christ, ensuring that their contribution to the faith is remembered in the historical record.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Epainetos appears only once in Scripture, tucked into Paul’s letter to the Romans. It means "praiseworthy," a fitting title for someone who became among the first believers in Achaia. Though we know little of his daily life, his inclusion reminds us that God values every individual within His community.
Paul greets him warmly alongside a house church, showing that faith thrives in ordinary settings. This name preserves the memory of an early follower who helped build the foundation of the Roman church. It encourages us to serve faithfully, knowing our contributions are seen and remembered by God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Epenetus1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἐπαίνετον1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 16:5
Greet the assembly that is in their house. Greet Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first fruits of Achaia to Christ.
This verse identifies Epainetus as the first convert from Achaia, highlighting his role in establishing early Christianity in that region.