Πρίσκα (Priska)
Priska
Prisca
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Priska, rendered in English as Prisca or Priscilla, is a Latin loanword meaning "ancient" or "venerable." It appears three times in contexts that highlight her role as the wife of Aquila, a fellow worker in the early Christian movement. The sources distinguish Prisca as the more formal name, while Priscilla serves as a familiar diminutive, yet both refer to the same Roman woman of likely good birth.
Her presence in Scripture is notable for its brevity but significant impact. She is mentioned alongside Aquila in Romans 16:3, 1 Corinthians 16:19, and 2 Timothy 4:19 as a co-worker who risked her life for Paul’s sake. In Acts, she appears more frequently, actively teaching Apollos alongside her husband. This consistent pairing underscores her equal standing in ministry.
The etymology of her name points to dignity and respect, fitting for a woman whose faith was demonstrated through action rather than title. Her story is one of partnership and courage, woven into the fabric of the New Testament’s early church history without fanfare but with enduring influence.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Prisca carries a sense of dignity and respect, reflecting a life lived with enduring influence. In the early church, she is remembered not for a title but for her faithful partnership with her husband Aquila. Together they worked alongside Paul, risking their lives for the sake of the gospel. This story shows that true service often happens quietly, behind the scenes, yet it leaves a lasting mark on history.
When we read how she and Aquila greeted fellow believers in Rome and Corinth, we see a model of warm community. They opened their homes to others, creating spaces where faith could grow. Their example invites us to consider how we might use our own resources and relationships to support those around us. It is a reminder that God values faithful presence and shared labor just as much as public ministry.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Prisca3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Πρίσκαν2×
- Πρίσκα1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 16:3
Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,
This verse highlights her role as a fellow worker who, along with Aquila, risked her life for Paul, showing the depth of her commitment to the gospel mission.
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I Corinthians 16:19
The assemblies of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, together with the assembly that is in their house.
Here she is mentioned alongside Aquila in the context of their home church, illustrating how their hospitality provided a central gathering place for early believers.
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II Timothy 4:19
Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the house of Onesiphorus.
Paul’s final greeting to Prisca and Aquila underscores her enduring significance in the apostolic network even as he faced his own impending end.