Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: The term "Bar-jona" is an Aramaic patronymic meaning "son of Jonah" or "son of John." It is used in the New Testament as a designation for the Apostle Peter, whose full name is Simon Bar-jona. This name highlights Peter's lineage, identifying him as the son of a man named Jonah or John. Biblical References: The name Bar-jona is specifically mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 16:17 , Jesus addresses Peter with this name: "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven." This passage occurs after Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. The use of "Bar-jona" here emphasizes Peter's human heritage in contrast to the divine revelation he received. Context and Significance: The use of "Bar-jona" in the New Testament is significant for several reasons. First, it serves to distinguish Simon Peter from other individuals named Simon, which was a common name in the first century. Second, it underscores the personal relationship between Jesus and Peter, as Jesus often used personal names and titles to convey deeper truths and connections. In the broader biblical narrative, Peter is one of the most prominent apostles, known for his leadership in the early church and his close relationship with Jesus. The name Bar-jona, therefore, not only identifies Peter's earthly father but also connects him to his spiritual role as a foundational figure in Christianity. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the use of "Bar-jona" in Matthew 16:17 is rich with meaning. It highlights the contrast between human understanding and divine revelation. While Peter is the son of Jonah by natural birth, his recognition of Jesus as the Messiah is attributed to a revelation from God the Father. This distinction underscores the Christian belief in the necessity of divine revelation for true understanding of spiritual truths. Furthermore, the passage in which "Bar-jona" is used is pivotal for understanding the role of Peter in the early church. Jesus' blessing upon Peter and the subsequent declaration about the church being built upon "this rock" (Matthew 16:18) have been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. Some traditions see this as a reference to Peter's leadership and authority, while others view it as a statement about the confession of faith that Peter made. Historical and Cultural Context: In the cultural context of first-century Judaism, patronymics were commonly used to identify individuals. This practice was especially important in distinguishing between people with the same given name. The use of Aramaic, the common language of the Jewish people in Palestine at the time, reflects the everyday speech of Jesus and His disciples. The name "Jonah" or "John" itself carries biblical significance. Jonah is a prophetic figure in the Old Testament, known for his mission to Nineveh and his experience in the belly of a great fish. While there is no direct connection between the prophet Jonah and Peter's father, the name may evoke themes of repentance and divine mission, which are central to Peter's own ministry. Conclusion: The designation "Bar-jona" serves as a reminder of Peter's human origins and his unique role in the divine plan as revealed by Jesus Christ. It encapsulates the intersection of human identity and divine calling, a theme that resonates throughout the New Testament and the history of the Christian faith. Easton's Bible Dictionary Son of Jonah, the patronymic of Peter (Matthew 16:17; John 1:42), because his father's name was Jonas. (see PETER.) Greek 920. Barionas -- "son of Jonah," Bar-Jonah, a surname of Peter ... Word Origin of Aramaic origin bar and Yonah Definition "son of Jonah," Bar-Jonah, a surname of Peter NASB Word Usage Barjona (1). Bar-jona. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/920.htm - 6k Library I am Told that He Also Carps at Me for the Translation I have ... Edwards -- Spiritual Light The Foreshadowing of the Cross Faustus Claims that the Manich??ans and not the Catholics are ... The Disciples of Jesus. The Transfiguration. Peter's Repentance The Christian Church 1 John v. 3-Jan Simon Peter's Faith in Christ Thesaurus Bar-jona (1 Occurrence)Bar-jona. Barjona, Bar-jona. Barjonah . Easton's Bible Dictionary ... (Root in WEY ASV BBE DBY YLT RSV). Barjona, Bar-jona. Barjonah . Reference Bible. /b/bar-jona.htm - 7k Simon-barjona (1 Occurrence) Barjona (1 Occurrence) Bar-jesus (1 Occurrence) Simon's (9 Occurrences) Barjonah Answering (202 Occurrences) Happy (143 Occurrences) Heavens (548 Occurrences) Resources What is a bar mitzvah? What is a bat mitzvah? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Bar-Jesus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the Zohar? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bar-jona (1 Occurrence)Matthew 16:17 Subtopics Related Terms |