The term "Cyrenaean" refers to an individual from Cyrene, an ancient city located in the region of Cyrenaica in present-day Libya, North Africa. Cyrene was a prominent Greek colony and later a Roman city, known for its intellectual and cultural contributions. In the context of the Bible, Cyrenaeans are mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in relation to the early Christian church and significant events in the life of Jesus Christ.

Biblical References:

1. Simon of Cyrene: One of the most notable mentions of a Cyrenaean in the Bible is Simon of Cyrene. He is compelled by Roman soldiers to carry the cross of Jesus on the way to Golgotha. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In the Berean Standard Bible, Mark 15:21 states, "Now Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross." This passage highlights Simon's unexpected role in the Passion narrative and his connection to the early Christian community, as his sons are mentioned by name, suggesting they were known to the Gospel's audience.

2. Cyrenaean Jews in Jerusalem: Cyrenaeans were part of the Jewish diaspora and had a significant presence in Jerusalem. Acts 2:10 mentions "visitors from Rome, both Jews and converts to Judaism; Cretans and Arabs," indicating the diverse groups present at Pentecost, which likely included Cyrenaeans. Furthermore, Acts 6:9 refers to the "Synagogue of the Freedmen," which included Cyrenaeans: "But some from the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria—as well as from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen." This passage illustrates the active participation of Cyrenaean Jews in religious and theological discussions in Jerusalem.

3. Early Christian Church: Cyrenaeans played a role in the spread of Christianity. Acts 11:20 notes, "But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks as well, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus." This indicates that Cyrenaean believers were instrumental in the missionary efforts to reach Gentiles, contributing to the growth of the early church beyond Jewish communities.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Cyrene was a center of Hellenistic culture and learning, known for its philosophers and scholars. The city's Jewish community was well-established, and its members were influential in both religious and civic life. The presence of Cyrenaeans in Jerusalem and their involvement in early Christianity reflect the interconnectedness of the Mediterranean world and the diverse backgrounds of the early church's members.

The mention of Cyrenaeans in the New Testament underscores the fulfillment of the Great Commission, as believers from various regions and cultures came together to spread the message of Jesus Christ. The inclusion of individuals like Simon of Cyrene in the Gospel narratives also highlights the universal scope of the Christian message, transcending ethnic and geographical boundaries.2956. Kurenaios -- of Cyrene
... Noun, Masculine Transliteration: Kurenaios Phonetic Spelling: (koo-ray-nah'-yos)
Short Definition: belonging to Cyrene, a Cyrenaean Definition: belonging to ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2956.htm - 6kCyrenaean (3 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cyrenaean (3 Occurrences). Matthew 27:32 Going out they
met a Cyrenaean named Simon; whom they compelled to carry His cross, (WEY). ...
/c/cyrenaean.htm - 7k

Named (428 Occurrences)
... cross. (BBE). Matthew 27:32 Going out they met a Cyrenaean named Simon; whom
they compelled to carry His cross, (WEY NAS NIV). Matthew ...
/n/named.htm - 33k

Met (118 Occurrences)
... owe.' (WEY). Matthew 27:32 Going out they met a Cyrenaean named Simon; whom
they compelled to carry His cross, (WEY NIV). Matthew 28 ...
/m/met.htm - 37k

Cyrama

/c/cyrama.htm - 6k

Cyrenaeans (2 Occurrences)

/c/cyrenaeans.htm - 7k

Shoulders (38 Occurrences)
... Luke 23:26 As soon as they led Him away, they laid hold on one Simon, a Cyrenaean,
who was coming in from the country, and on his shoulders they put the cross ...
/s/shoulders.htm - 18k

Carry (246 Occurrences)
... Mark 15:21 One Simon, a Cyrenaean, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing
along, coming from the country: him they compelled to carry His cross. ...
/c/carry.htm - 40k

Behind (188 Occurrences)
... Luke 23:26 As soon as they led Him away, they laid hold on one Simon, a Cyrenaean,
who was coming in from the country, and on his shoulders they put the cross ...
/b/behind.htm - 37k

Along (500 Occurrences)
... Mark 15:21 One Simon, a Cyrenaean, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing
along, coming from the country: him they compelled to carry His cross. (WEY). ...
/a/along.htm - 33k

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