Νικόδημος (Nikodēmos)
Nikodēmos
Nicodemus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Nikodēmos appears five times in the Gospel of John, identifying a specific figure known as Nicodemus. The lexicon data indicates that this is a proper noun rather than a descriptive term, derived from Greek roots meaning "conqueror." It serves primarily to distinguish this individual within the narrative of Jesus’ ministry.
Nicodemus is consistently described as a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. His appearances mark key moments in the Johannine account: he visits Jesus at night to discuss spiritual rebirth, speaks up for fair treatment during a debate about the Messiah, and later assists in preparing Jesus’ body for burial. These references establish his role as a respectful but cautious insider seeking understanding.
Unlike words that carry theological weight through their definition, Nikodēmos functions as a historical identifier. The sources do not attribute symbolic meaning to the name itself beyond its literal translation. Its significance lies entirely in the actions and conversations attributed to this particular leader of the Jews.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Nicodemus appears in the Gospel of John as a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council who approaches Jesus under the cover of darkness. His story shows that seeking truth often begins with quiet, personal questions rather than public declarations. He represents those who hold respected positions yet feel an inner pull toward something deeper, willing to step out of their comfort zone to understand spiritual realities.
Over time, Nicodemus moves from secret inquiries to public advocacy and finally to a bold act of devotion by preparing Jesus’ body for burial. This progression reminds us that faith is not always immediate certainty but can grow through honest questioning and gradual commitment. His journey invites readers to consider how their own search for meaning might unfold with patience and openness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Nicodemus4×
- Nicodemus;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Νικόδημος4×
- Νικόδημος·1×
Key Verses
-
John 3:1
Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
This opening reference establishes Nicodemus as a respected religious leader, highlighting the significance of his decision to seek Jesus despite potential social risks.
-
John 3:4
Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”
Here he voices a literal misunderstanding of spiritual rebirth, showing how even knowledgeable individuals may need new perspectives to grasp divine truths.
-
John 7:50
Nicodemus (he who came to him by night, being one of them) said to them,
Nicodemus publicly defends Jesus’ right to a fair hearing, marking his transition from private seeker to cautious advocate within the council.
-
John 19:39
Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred Roman pounds.
His final appearance shows full commitment as he brings costly spices to bury Jesus, demonstrating how initial curiosity can mature into profound loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nicodemus in the Bible?
Why did Nicodemus come to Jesus at night?
What does the name Nicodemus mean?
How did Nicodemus’s view of Jesus change?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
John 5 verses
Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
John 3:4Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be…
John 3:9Nicodemus answered him, “How can these things be?”
John 7:50Nicodemus (he who came to him by night, being one of them) said to them,
John 19:39Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred Roman…