Φύγελλος (Phugellos)
Phugellos
Phygelus
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Phugellos is a proper name found only once in the New Testament, appearing in 2 Timothy 1:15. The sources identify him as a Christian from the province of Asia who had previously been associated with the Apostle Paul but ultimately deserted him.
The etymology suggests the meaning "a little fugitive," derived from the root for fleeing or running away. This linguistic detail aligns with his historical role in the text, serving as a specific example of abandonment during a time when Paul faced opposition and isolation in Rome.
Paul mentions Phugellos alongside Crescens to illustrate how even those close to ministry can turn away. The name itself functions as a descriptive label for his action, marking him not just by identity but by the act of departure from the apostolic community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Phygelus appears in a single verse, 2 Timothy 1:15, where Paul notes that all in Asia turned away from him, specifically naming Phygelus and Hermogenes. This brief mention serves as a sobering reminder that even those closely associated with ministry can choose to leave during times of difficulty or opposition.
For your faith life, this word highlights the reality of human frailty. It is natural to feel discouraged when support fades, yet Paul’s letter does not dwell on bitterness but on steadfastness. The presence of such names in Scripture validates our own experiences of loneliness or betrayal, showing that these struggles are part of the Christian journey.
Ultimately, this passage invites us to look beyond the actions of others and fix our eyes on Christ. While people may come and go, the call to remain faithful remains constant. We can find comfort in knowing that our security rests not in human loyalty, but in the unchanging character of God who never abandons His own.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Phygelus1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Φύγελος1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 1:15
This you know, that all who are in Asia turned away from me, of whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes.
This verse identifies Phygelus as a specific example of someone who deserted Paul, illustrating the theme of abandonment in Asia.