Τρύφαινα (Truphaina)
Truphaina
Tryphaena
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Tryphaena appears only once in the New Testament, in Romans 16:12, where Paul greets a fellow worker who has "labored much in the Lord." The word itself comes from the Greek root for luxury or indulgence, literally meaning "luxurious" or "delicate." It was a common personal name in the ancient world, often given to women, but it carried a connotation of softness or refinement that might seem at odds with the harsh realities of early Christian life.
Paul’s description of Tryphaena as one who has labored significantly stands in interesting contrast to the meaning of her name. While the term suggests a life of ease or pampering, the text highlights her strenuous effort and dedication to the ministry. This juxtaposition emphasizes that spiritual labor is not defined by social status or personal disposition, but by faithful service regardless of one’s background or the literal meaning of one’s name.
Because this is the sole occurrence of the word in Scripture, its theological weight rests entirely on how it characterizes Tryphaena’s contribution to the early church. It serves as a reminder that those who serve God often do so with great intensity, transcending any expectations associated with their identity or heritage. The brief mention preserves her memory as a dedicated laborer in the Roman Christian community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Tryphaena comes from a Greek root meaning luxury or softness, yet the New Testament presents her as a woman of intense spiritual strength. In Romans 16:12, Paul greets her alongside Tryphosa, noting that they both labor in the Lord. This contrast between her name’s connotation of ease and her actual life of hard work offers a quiet encouragement for anyone who serves.
Your background or natural disposition does not limit your capacity to serve God faithfully. Whether you feel naturally reserved or energetic, your value lies in your dedication to the work entrusted to you. Tryphaena’s example reminds us that spiritual labor is defined by faithful effort, not by social status or personal temperament. We are invited to trust that God uses our unique gifts and even our unexpected histories for His purposes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Tryphena1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Τρύφαιναν1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 16:12
Greet Tryphaena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord. Greet Persis, the beloved, who labored much in the Lord.
This verse highlights Tryphaena’s significant labor in the Lord, contrasting her name's meaning of luxury with her actual strenuous service.