Πρίσκιλλα (Priskilla)
Priskilla
Priscilla
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Priscilla appears in three New Testament verses, all within Acts 18, where she is identified as the wife of Aquila. This form is a diminutive of Prisca, which serves as the more formal Latin version of her name. The sources note that while Prisca is the standard rendering in epistles like Romans and Timothy, Acts uses this familiar variant.
Etymologically, the name traces back to the Latin root for "ancient" or "venerable." In the biblical narrative, she is consistently paired with her husband Aquila. Their joint ministry is highlighted when they welcome Paul and later instruct Apollos in the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:26). The text presents them as a unified team in early Christian outreach.
Translators preserve this distinction to reflect the original Greek usage found in Acts. The choice of the diminutive form does not imply lesser importance; rather, it reflects the specific textual tradition of Luke’s Gospel and Acts. The name itself carries a sense of respect, aligning with her role as a respected partner in ministry alongside Aquila.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Priscilla appears in Acts as a familiar form of her more formal name, Prisca. This linguistic choice highlights her close partnership with her husband, Aquila, in the early church. Together they welcomed Paul and later helped Apollos understand Scripture more deeply. Their story shows how ordinary couples played vital roles in spreading the Gospel.
Priscilla’s presence reminds us that God uses both men and women to teach and encourage one another. She is not just a background figure but an active participant in ministry. Her example encourages believers today to value mutual learning and shared service within the body of Christ.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Priscilla3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Πρίσκιλλα2×
- Πρίσκιλλαν1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 18:2
He found a certain Jew named Aquila, a man of Pontus by race, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome. He came to them,
This verse introduces Priscilla alongside Aquila, showing her established role as a partner in ministry even before meeting Paul.
-
Acts 18:18
Paul, having stayed after this many more days, took his leave of the brothers, and sailed from there for Syria, together with Priscilla and Aquila. He shaved his head in Cenchreae, for he had a vow.
Here she travels with Paul and Aquila, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to the mission despite personal risks from imperial decrees.
-
Acts 18:26
He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained to him the way of God more accurately.
In this key moment, Priscilla and Aquila together correct Apollos’ understanding, highlighting her active role in theological instruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Priscilla mean in the Bible?
How is Priscilla different from Prisca?
Where does Priscilla appear in Scripture?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Acts 3 verses
He found a certain Jew named Aquila, a man of Pontus by race, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla,…
Acts 18:18Paul, having stayed after this many more days, took his leave of the brothers, and sailed from there for Syria,…
Acts 18:26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside, and explained…