Lexicon prostatis: Patroness, helper, protector Original Word: προστάτις Strong's Exhaustive Concordance assistantFeminine of a derivative of proistemi; a patroness, i.e. Assistant -- succourer. see GREEK proistemi NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfem. of a derivation of proistémi Definition a patroness, protectress NASB Translation helper (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4368: προστάτιςπροστάτις, προστατιδος, ἡ (feminine of the noun προστάτης, from προΐστημι); a. properly, a woman set over others. b. a female guardian, protectress, patroness, caring for the affairs of others and aiding them with her resources (A. V. succourer): Romans 16:2; cf. Passow on the word and under προστάτης at the end; (Schürer, Die Gemeindeverfassung der Juden in Rom, as above with (Leip. 1879), p. 31; Heinrici, Die Christengemeinde Korinths, in Hilgenfeld's Zeitschr. for 1876, p. 517f). Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Hebrew equivalent for προστάτις in the Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, as the concept of a female patron or protector is more culturally specific to the Greco-Roman context. However, similar roles of support and leadership can be seen in the Old Testament through figures like Deborah (Judges 4-5) and the "woman of noble character" in Proverbs 31, who provides for her household and engages in business and charitable activities. Usage: The term προστάτις is used in the New Testament to describe a woman who provides support and assistance, often in a leadership or protective role. It is specifically used in Romans 16:2. Context: The term προστάτις appears in the New Testament in Romans 16:2, where the Apostle Paul refers to Phoebe as a "prostatis" of many, including himself. In this context, Phoebe is commended for her role as a benefactor and supporter of the early Christian community. The use of προστάτις highlights her significant contribution to the church, suggesting that she was a woman of means and influence who used her resources to aid the mission of the church and its members. |
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