Σίλας (Silas)

Silas

G4609 · Greek · New Testament · 13 verses

Language: Koine Greek
Testament: New Testament
Occurrences: 13 verses
Root: —

Word Overview

Silas is a proper name appearing thirteen times in the New Testament, primarily within the Acts of the Apostles. The form Σιλάς is a contraction of Silvanus (G4610), and it likely derives from an Aramaic root meaning "woody" or "of the forest." This brief title identifies him as a significant companion to the apostle Paul during the early expansion of the Christian mission.

He first appears in Acts 15:22, where he is sent from Jerusalem with Judas (also called Barsabbas) to deliver the apostolic decree to Gentile believers in Antioch. The letter itself identifies the writers as Silas and Judas, highlighting his role as a trusted representative of the Jerusalem church. Later, in Acts 15:40, Paul chooses Silas over Barnabas’s cousin John Mark for his second missionary journey, marking the beginning of their close partnership.

Silas accompanies Paul through Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth. In Philippi, he is imprisoned with Paul (Acts 16:19), and in Thessalonica, he remains behind while Paul travels to Athens (Acts 17:14-15). His presence underscores the collaborative nature of early missionary work, bridging Jewish and Gentile communities through shared hardship and theological clarity.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Silas appears as a steadfast companion to Paul during some of the most challenging moments in early church history. His name, likely meaning 'of the forest' or 'wood,' fits a man who stood firm amidst storms. He was not merely a helper but a prophet and a leader in his own right, trusted by the Jerusalem church to deliver crucial decisions to Gentile believers. This shows that God uses diverse voices to build unity across cultural divides.

When Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi, they did not despair. Instead, they prayed and sang hymns at midnight. Their worship was so powerful that it shook the prison foundations and led to the jailer’s salvation. This reminds us that our circumstances do not define our faith; our response to God does. We are called to stand together, encouraging one another even when the road is difficult.

Today, Silas invites us to value partnership and perseverance. He stayed with Paul through hardships, proving that shared suffering can lead to shared joy. Whether you are facing a sudden change or a long trial, remember that you are not alone. God provides companions and strength for the journey ahead.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 13 verses where it appears, by frequency.

Silas7×
Silas,4×
to Silas,1×
to Silas1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

Σιλᾶν4×
Σιλᾶς3×
Σιλᾷ,2×
Σιλᾶν,2×
Σίλᾳ1×
Σιλᾶς,1×

Key Verses

Acts 15:32
Judas and Silas, also being prophets themselves, encouraged the brothers with many words and strengthened them.

This verse highlights Silas's specific role as a prophet who actively encouraged and strengthened the believers, showing his contribution beyond just carrying letters.
Acts 16:25
But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

Here, Silas joins Paul in prayer and song during imprisonment, demonstrating that worship is a valid response to suffering and a source of spiritual power.
Acts 15:40
but Paul chose Silas and went out, being commended by the brothers to the grace of God.

Paul's choice of Silas over John Mark marks the beginning of their close missionary partnership, illustrating the importance of reliable teamwork in spreading the gospel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Silas in the Bible?

Silas was a prominent leader in the early Jerusalem church and a close companion of the Apostle Paul. He served as a prophet and helped bridge the gap between Jewish and Gentile Christians during the mission's expansion.

What is the difference between Silas and Silvanus?

They are the same person. 'Silas' is the Greek form used in Acts, while 'Silvanus' is the Latin form Paul uses in his letters, such as 1 Thessalonians and 2 Corinthians.

Why was Silas important to Paul's ministry?

Silas provided crucial support during Paul's second missionary journey. He was a trusted representative from Jerusalem who helped validate the gospel message to Gentiles and stood with Paul through imprisonment and hardship.

Every Occurrence (13 verses across 1 books)

Acts 13 verses

Acts 15:22

Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole assembly, to choose men out of their company, and…

Acts 15:27

We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who themselves will also tell you the same things by word of mouth.

Acts 15:32

Judas and Silas, also being prophets themselves, encouraged the brothers with many words and strengthened them.

Acts 15:34 Acts 15:40

but Paul chose Silas and went out, being commended by the brothers to the grace of God.

Acts 16:19

But when her masters saw that the hope of their gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the…

Acts 16:25

But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

Acts 16:29

He called for lights, sprang in, fell down trembling before Paul and Silas,

Acts 17:4

Some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas: of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and not a few of the…

Acts 17:10

The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Beroea. When they arrived, they went into the Jewish…

Acts 17:14

Then the brothers immediately sent out Paul to go as far as to the sea, and Silas and Timothy still stayed there.

Acts 17:15

But those who escorted Paul brought him as far as Athens. Receiving a commandment to Silas and Timothy that they should…

Acts 18:5

When Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, testifying to the Jews that Jesus…