Φοίβη (Phoibē)
Phoibē
Phoebe
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The name Phoēbē means "radiant" or "bright," derived from a root associated with light. In the New Testament, it appears only once, identifying a woman named Phoebe in Romans 16:1.
Paul describes her as a deaconess of the church at Cenchreae, a port town near Corinth. This title indicates she held an official role of service within that local community. The sources note that her name itself reflects a quality of shining or brightness, fitting for someone entrusted with such responsibility.
Paul also calls her a "patron" (prostatis) to many, including himself. This term suggests she was a benefactor who provided practical support and protection. Her mention in Romans highlights the significant role women played in the early church's leadership and care structures.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Phoebe’s name means "radiant," and her life in Romans 16:1 shows what that looks like in practice. Paul calls her a servant of the church at Cenchreae, highlighting that leadership in the early church was not just about preaching but also about practical care and support.
She acted as a patron to many, including Paul himself. This means she used her resources and influence to protect and help others. Her example reminds us that shining for Christ often happens through quiet acts of service, generosity, and standing with those in need.
We can learn from Phoebe’s dedication. Whether we have much or little, we are called to be a light to our communities. May we serve with the same warmth and strength she showed, trusting that God sees and values our faithful contributions.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Phoebe1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Φοίβην1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 16:1
I commend to you Phoebe, our sister, who is a servant of the assembly that is at Cenchreae,
This verse introduces Phoebe as a servant of the church at Cenchreae, establishing her official role and the context for Paul's commendation.