προστάτις (prostatis)
prostatis
patroness
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun prostatis refers to a woman who acts as a patron or protector, using her resources and status to support others. In the first-century context, this role involved managing affairs and providing aid, much like a female guardian overseeing the interests of those under her care.
This term appears only once in the New Testament, in Romans 16:2, where Paul commends Phoebe. He describes her as a prostatis to many, including himself. This identifies her not merely as a helper, but as someone with significant social standing and influence who actively championed the needs of others.
The word derives from a root meaning "to stand before" or "to stand over," emphasizing a position of authority and protection rather than passive service. Translators often render it as "patroness" to capture this sense of dignified leadership and material support within the early Christian community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word prostatis describes a woman who stands before others to protect and provide. In the first century, this was not a minor role but one of significant social standing and influence. It implies using one’s own resources and status to champion the needs of those under care. This is dignity in service, where leadership looks like active support rather than passive observation.
Paul uses this term for Phoebe, showing that God entrusts spiritual advancement to those who can manage affairs effectively. When you see someone using their position to help others, you are seeing a picture of Christ-like leadership. It invites us to consider how we might use our own standing to support the community around us.
This word reminds us that faith is not just about personal piety but also about practical care. We are called to be patrons of the gospel, using what we have to advance the work of others. May you find strength in knowing that God values those who stand in the gap for His people.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a patroness1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- προστάτις1×
Key Verses
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Romans 16:2
that you receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and that you assist her in whatever matter she may need from you, for she herself also has been a helper of many, and of my own self.
Paul explicitly identifies Phoebe as a prostatis to many, including himself, highlighting her role as a protector and provider rather than just a casual helper.