Φαραώ (Pharaō)
Pharaō
Pharaoh
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word Pharaō refers to the title held by the ancient kings of Egypt. It is a transliteration of the Hebrew term Par’oh, which appears frequently in the Old Testament narratives about Israel’s history. In the New Testament, it surfaces in only five verses, serving as a historical marker for the rulers who opposed or interacted with God’s people.
This title functions as a proper noun rather than a generic descriptor for any monarch. The sources note its use in Acts 7 to describe both the king under whom Joseph rose to power and the one during Moses’ early life, as well as in Romans 9:17 and Hebrews 11:24 when recalling the Exodus story. It represents the supreme authority of Egypt, often standing in contrast to the sovereignty of God.
Its presence in these specific New Testament passages highlights the tension between earthly power and divine purpose. By referencing Pharaoh, the biblical authors evoke the entire narrative of deliverance, reminding readers of how God intervened against the mightiest empire of the ancient world to free His chosen people.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Pharaoh stands for the highest earthly power, yet the biblical story shows that no throne can resist God’s plan. When Joseph stood before the king, it was not his own wisdom that saved him, but grace given from above. This reminds us that even in places of great pressure or authority, God is working out His purposes for good.
Paul and the writer to the Hebrews look back at this history to show how faith acts when faced with overwhelming force. Moses chose to stand with God’s people rather than enjoy the privileges of royal connection. This word reminds us that true security does not come from aligning with the powerful, but from trusting the One who delivers.
When life feels like it is controlled by forces beyond your reach, remember that God has shown His power over every empire. You can rest in the knowledge that He is greater than any obstacle and that He brings freedom to those who wait on Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to Pharaoh2×
- of Pharaoh,1×
- of Pharaoh1×
- Pharaoh1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Φαραὼ4×
- Φαραώ,1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 9:17
For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I caused you to be raised up, that I might show in you my power, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
This verse highlights how God uses even a resistant ruler to display His power and proclaim His name across the earth.
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Hebrews 11:24
By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter,
Here Pharaoh’s daughter represents the allure of worldly status, which Moses rejected in favor of identifying with God’s people.
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Acts 7:10
and delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt. He made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
This occurrence shows how God turned a situation of affliction into one of honor and wisdom before the king.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pharaoh mean in the New Testament?
Why is Pharaoh mentioned in Romans 9?
How does Hebrews 11 use the title?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 3 books)
Acts 3 verses
and delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt. He made him…
Acts 7:13On the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph’s family was revealed to Pharaoh.
Acts 7:21When he was abandoned, Pharaoh’s daughter took him up and reared him as her own son.