Topical Encyclopedia Ananias is a name that appears multiple times in the New Testament, associated with different individuals who played significant roles in the early Christian church. The name Ananias is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh is gracious."1. Ananias of Damascus: Ananias of Damascus is a devout disciple mentioned in the Book of Acts. He is best known for his role in the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul. According to Acts 9:10-18, the Lord appeared to Ananias in a vision, instructing him to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and lay hands on Saul so that he might regain his sight. Despite his initial hesitation due to Saul's reputation for persecuting Christians, Ananias obeyed the Lord's command. Upon meeting Saul, Ananias said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 9:17). Saul's sight was restored, and he was baptized, marking a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity. 2. Ananias and Sapphira: Another Ananias is mentioned in Acts 5:1-11, where he and his wife Sapphira are noted for their deceit. They sold a piece of property and kept back part of the proceeds while claiming to have donated the entire amount to the apostles. Peter confronted Ananias, saying, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?" (Acts 5:3). Upon hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died, and later, the same fate befell Sapphira. This event served as a stern warning to the early church about the seriousness of lying to God and the importance of integrity. 3. Ananias, the High Priest: Ananias also refers to a high priest who played a role in the trial of Paul. In Acts 23:1-5, Paul appeared before the Sanhedrin, and Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth. Paul responded, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck" (Acts 23:3). Ananias's actions exemplify the opposition Paul faced from Jewish authorities during his ministry. Each mention of Ananias in the New Testament highlights different aspects of early Christian life and the challenges faced by the nascent church. From the faithful obedience of Ananias of Damascus to the cautionary tale of Ananias and Sapphira, and the opposition from Ananias the high priest, these accounts provide valuable insights into the dynamics of the early Christian community and the unfolding of God's plan through His people. Concordance Anani'as (10 Occurrences)Acts 5:1 Acts 5:3 Acts 5:5 Acts 9:10 Acts 9:12 Acts 9:13 Acts 9:17 Acts 22:12 Acts 23:2 Acts 24:1 Thesaurus Anani'as (10 Occurrences)Anani'as. Ananias, Anani'as. Ananiel . Multi-Version Concordance Anani'as (10 Occurrences). Acts 5:1 And a certain man, Ananias ... /a/anani'as.htm - 8k Ananias (11 Occurrences) Ananiel Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |