Νηρεύς (Nēreus)
Nēreus
Nereus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Nereus appears only once in the New Testament, listed among those greeted by Paul in Romans 16:12. The lexicon sources identify him simply as a Christian at Rome, offering no further biographical details about his life or ministry.
The name itself carries an interesting linguistic history. Thayer’s notes suggest it may derive from a root meaning "wet," linking it to Nereus the sea-god of Greek mythology, son of Pontus. While the mythological figure was known for prophecy and shape-shifting, the biblical Nereus is presented without such legendary attributes, standing solely as a member of the early Roman church.
His single mention highlights the vast network of believers connected to Paul’s correspondence. By naming him alongside other faithful workers, the text underscores that the Christian community in Rome included individuals whose names might otherwise have been lost to history, valued simply for their presence in the body of Christ.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Nereus appears in Romans 16:15 as one of many Christians Paul greets warmly. Though we know little about his life, his name is preserved in Scripture. This shows that every believer matters to God and to the church community.
Paul’s letter highlights ordinary people like Nereus who served faithfully without seeking fame. Their presence reminds us that the body of Christ includes many voices and backgrounds. We are all valued for our place in this shared faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Nereus1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Νηρέα1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 16:15
Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.
This verse lists Nereus among those greeted by Paul, showing his inclusion in the early Roman church community.