Ἰάειρος (Iaeiros)
Iaeiros
Jairus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Iaeiros, known in English as Jairus, appears only twice in the New Testament, both times identifying a specific individual: a leader of the local synagogue. This figure is recorded in Mark 5:22 and Luke 8:41 as the man who approached Jesus to beg for healing for his dying daughter.
Lexical sources trace the name to the Hebrew Yā’îr, which means "whom God enlightens" or "God illuminates." This etymological root connects the personal identity of the synagogue ruler with a spiritual concept of divine light, even though the biblical narrative focuses on his desperate plea for mercy rather than any theological discourse.
As a proper noun, Iaeiros serves as a historical marker in the Gospels. Its rarity highlights the significance of the encounter: a respected community leader humbling himself before a traveling teacher from Nazareth. The name itself, meaning "God enlightens," stands in quiet contrast to the darkness of death that Jairus feared for his child.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Jairus was a respected leader in his community, yet he did not let his status keep him from approaching Jesus. When his daughter was dying, he fell at the feet of a traveling teacher and asked for help. This moment shows that no matter who we are or what we have achieved, we still need God’s mercy. Humility opens the door to grace.
The name Jairus means "God enlightens," which fits his story well. He came out of the fear of loss into the light of hope. Jesus did not turn him away but responded with compassion and power. This reminds us that our problems do not disqualify us from God’s care. Instead, they can be the very place where we meet Him.
When life feels dark or uncertain, remember that Jesus welcomes those who come to Him with honest hearts. You do not need to have it all together. Simply bring your needs to Him, and trust that He sees you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Jairus;1×
- Jairus,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ἰάϊρος·1×
- Ἰάϊρος,1×
Key Verses
-
Mark 5:22
Behold, one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, came; and seeing him, he fell at his feet
This verse introduces Jairus as a synagogue ruler who humbles himself by falling at Jesus' feet, showing that social status does not prevent one from seeking divine help.
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Luke 8:41
Behold, a man named Jairus came. He was a ruler of the synagogue. He fell down at Jesus’ feet and begged him to come into his house,
Here Jairus explicitly begs Jesus to come to his house, highlighting the urgency of his request and his complete dependence on Jesus' presence for his daughter's healing.