Νυμφᾶς (Numphas)
Numphas
Nympha
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Nymphas appears only once in the New Testament, located in Colossians 4:15. It is a masculine proper noun meaning "bridegroom," likely derived from Greek roots associated with marriage or wedlock. The text identifies him as a member of the church meeting in Laodicea, placing him within the network of early Christian communities Paul knew well.
Lexical sources note that the spelling varies slightly across manuscripts, with some reading Nympha (a feminine name) instead. This textual variation highlights the careful work of scribes and modern editors who must decide between "bridegroom" and "bride" for this individual. Despite these minor differences in form, the reference remains a singular glimpse into the personal connections that sustained the early church.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Nympha appears just once in the New Testament, tucked into Paul’s closing greetings in Colossians 4:15. It means “bridegroom,” a word that carries warmth and intimacy. In this brief mention, we see an early Christian named Nympha opening his home to the church in Laodicea. His hospitality became a gathering place for believers, showing how ordinary people played vital roles in spreading the gospel.
This single verse reminds us that faith thrives in community. When Christians share their homes and lives, they create spaces where others can encounter God’s love. Nympha’s example encourages us to welcome others with openness and care, knowing that such acts strengthen the body of Christ. His story is small but significant, highlighting how each person contributes to the larger work of building up the church.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Nympha1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Νύμφαν1×
Key Verses
-
Colossians 4:15
Greet the brothers who are in Laodicea, with Nymphas and the assembly that is in his house.
This verse highlights Nympha’s role in hosting the Laodicean church, showing how personal hospitality supported early Christian gatherings.