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Ἑρμογένης (Hermogenēs)

Hermogenēs

Hermogenes

G2061 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The name Hermogenes appears only once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 1:15. Paul writes that everyone in the province of Asia, including Hermogenes, has turned away from him. The name itself combines the elements for "Mercury" and "born," suggesting a meaning like "born of Mercury" or "lucky born." This reflects the common Hellenistic practice of naming children after deities or desirable traits.

While the text identifies Hermogenes as a Christian from Asia who abandoned Paul, it offers no further details about his life or theology. His mention serves primarily as a stark example of the persecution and isolation Paul faced in his later years. The brevity of the reference highlights the personal cost of ministry during that period.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Reading about Hermogenes in 2 Timothy 1:15 can feel heavy. Paul writes that everyone in Asia, including this man named Hermogenes, turned away from him. It is a stark reminder that following Jesus does not guarantee human loyalty. Even the most dedicated servants of God may face abandonment when their commitment to Christ becomes costly.

Yet this moment is not just about loss; it is an invitation to examine our own hearts. When relationships strain under pressure, do we stay faithful? The text does not condemn Hermogenes with harsh words, but simply records the fact. We are called to remain steadfast in love and truth, even when others step back.

May you find strength in knowing that your faithfulness is seen by God, regardless of how many people stand beside you. His presence remains constant, offering peace that outlasts every human shift.

How it's translated

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

  • Hermogenes.1×

Forms in the text

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

  • Ἑρμογένης.1×

Key Verses

  • II Timothy 1:15
    This you know, that all who are in Asia turned away from me, of whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.

    This verse records Hermogenes as part of the group in Asia that abandoned Paul, highlighting the personal isolation faced by early leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Hermogenes?

Hermogenes is a man mentioned only once in the New Testament, in 2 Timothy 1:15. He was from the province of Asia and had previously been associated with Paul but turned away from him during a time of persecution.

What does the name Hermogenes mean?

The name is Greek and combines elements meaning 'Mercury' (the god Hermes) and 'born'. It likely meant 'born of Mercury' or 'lucky born', reflecting common Hellenistic naming practices that invoked deities or desirable traits.

Why is Hermogenes important to understand?

His mention serves as a historical marker of the difficulties Paul faced in his later ministry. It illustrates the real human cost of discipleship and the pain of abandonment, providing context for Paul's exhortations to remain faithful.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

II Timothy 1 verse
II Timothy 1:15

This you know, that all who are in Asia turned away from me, of whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.