Apphia is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's Epistle to Philemon. Her name appears in Philemon 1:2, where Paul addresses her alongside Philemon and Archippus: "to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets at your house" . This brief mention provides a glimpse into the early Christian community and the role of women within it.

Historical and Cultural Context

Apphia is traditionally understood to be a member of the early Christian church in Colossae, a city in the region of Phrygia in Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey. The epistle is a personal letter from Paul, written during his imprisonment, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. The letter is addressed to Philemon, a prominent member of the Colossian church, and it concerns Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian and was returning to his master, Philemon.

Role and Significance

The mention of Apphia in the salutation of the letter suggests that she held a significant position within the household and the church community. The term "our sister" indicates her status as a fellow believer and possibly a leader or influential figure within the church that met in Philemon's house. Some traditions and interpretations suggest that Apphia may have been Philemon's wife, which would explain her inclusion in the greeting and her potential involvement in the decision-making process regarding Onesimus.

Theological Implications

Apphia's inclusion in the letter highlights the active participation of women in the early Christian communities. Her mention alongside Philemon and Archippus underscores the collaborative nature of ministry and the importance of the household as a center for worship and fellowship in the early church. This reflects the broader New Testament theme of the equality and unity of all believers in Christ, as expressed in Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" .

Legacy and Tradition

While the Bible provides limited information about Apphia, her legacy endures through her association with the early church's development and the spread of Christianity. In some Christian traditions, Apphia is venerated as a saint and martyr. The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates her feast day on February 19, recognizing her as a model of faith and dedication to the Christian community.

Apphia's mention in the Epistle to Philemon serves as a testament to the vital roles women played in the early church and the enduring impact of their contributions to the faith. Her account, though brief, invites reflection on the nature of Christian fellowship, hospitality, and the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of individuals and communities.Ap'phia (1 Occurrence)

Philemon 1:2
to the beloved Apphia, to Archippus, our fellow soldier, and to the assembly in your house:
(See RSV)

Ap'phia (1 Occurrence)
Ap'phia. Apphia, Ap'phia. Apphus . Multi-Version Concordance Ap'phia (1
Occurrence). Philemon 1:2 to the beloved Apphia, to Archippus ...
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Apphus

/a/apphus.htm - 7k

Apphia (1 Occurrence)

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