Μαναήν (Manaēn)
Manaēn
Manaen
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Manaēn appears only once in the New Testament, listed among the prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch (Acts 13:1). It is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Menahem, which means "comforter." This brief mention places him within a diverse group of leaders who played a key role in sending out Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey.
Lexical sources suggest an interesting historical detail about his background: he was likely a foster brother or close companion of Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee. This connection implies that Manaēn came from a position of significant social privilege and political influence within the Roman client kingdom. His presence among the church leaders highlights how individuals from high-status backgrounds were integrated into the early Christian community.
The name itself carries the meaning of comfort, yet the text does not elaborate on his personal ministry or specific actions beyond being named in this foundational list. The significance lies in the diversity of the Antioch church, which included someone with such a prominent secular connection. This single reference serves as a reminder that the early movement attracted people from varied social strata and political affiliations.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Manaēn appears just once in Scripture, yet it carries a quiet weight. Listed among the prophets and teachers at Antioch, he is identified as a companion of Herod the tetrarch. This detail reveals that the early church welcomed individuals from high social standing and political circles. Faith does not require you to leave your background behind; instead, God uses diverse people to build His community.
His presence reminds us that the gospel crosses every social boundary. Whether one comes from a palace or a fishing boat, all are called to serve. The church at Antioch thrived because it included voices from different worlds. This diversity strengthens the body of Christ, showing that no one is too far gone or too privileged to contribute to God’s work.
We can take comfort in knowing that God values every person He calls. Your unique story and connections are part of His plan. Like Manaēn, you may find your place among fellow believers who support and challenge you. The Holy Spirit unites us across all differences, creating a family where everyone belongs.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Manaen1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Μαναήν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 13:1
Now in the assembly that was at Antioch there were some prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen the foster brother of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
This verse uniquely identifies Manaēn as a companion of Herod the tetrarch, highlighting the social diversity within the Antioch church leadership.