Πόπλιος (Poplios)
Poplios
Publius
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Poplios, rendered in English as Publius, appears only twice in the New Testament within the book of Acts (28:7–8). It is a Latin personal name meaning "popular" or "of the people," reflecting its Roman origin rather than a Hebrew or Greek etymology. In this context, it identifies a specific individual who held significant authority on the island of Malta.
Publius is described as the chief magistrate or leading official of the island during Paul’s shipwreck there. His role highlights the unexpected hospitality extended to the Apostle by local leadership, contrasting with the hostility faced elsewhere. The brevity of his mention underscores how ordinary historical figures become part of the biblical narrative through divine providence.
This single reference provides a rare glimpse into early Christian interactions with Roman civic authorities outside major urban centers like Rome or Corinth. Publius’ inclusion in Scripture serves as a reminder that God’s mission often unfolds through unexpected channels and individuals, even among Gentile leaders unfamiliar with Jewish customs.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Publius appears briefly in Acts 28:7 as the chief official of Malta. When Paul arrived shipwrecked, this Roman leader offered hospitality and protection. This small act of kindness opened a door for the Gospel in a place where it had never been heard before.
The story continues when Paul heals Publius’ father. Through this healing, many on the island were blessed. It shows how God uses ordinary moments and unexpected people to spread His love. Even leaders unfamiliar with Jewish customs can become part of God’s plan.
Today, we might meet someone who seems unlikely to listen to our faith. Yet, like Publius, they may be ready to receive kindness that leads to deeper truth. Let us stay open to how God works through those around us, even in strange places.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of Publius1×
- Publius,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Ποπλίῳ,1×
- Ποπλίου1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 28:7
Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and courteously entertained us for three days.
This verse introduces Publius as the chief man of the island who receives Paul and his companions, showing initial hospitality toward the apostles.
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Acts 28:8
The father of Publius lay sick of fever and dysentery. Paul entered in to him, prayed, and laying his hands on him, healed him.
Here Paul heals Publius’ sick father, demonstrating divine power through prayer and laying on of hands, which leads to further blessings for the island.