Overview:
Geron is a term that appears in the New Testament, specifically in the context of the Epistle to Philemon. The term is derived from the Greek word "gerōn," which means "old man" or "elder." In the biblical context, it is used to describe the Apostle Paul in his letter to Philemon, highlighting his advanced age and possibly his status as a respected elder within the early Christian community.

Biblical Reference:
The term "geron" is found in Philemon 1:9, where Paul writes, "I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. I, Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus" . Here, Paul refers to himself as an "old man," using the term "geron" to emphasize his age and experience, which he hopes will lend weight to his appeal for Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a Christian.

Context and Significance:
In the context of the letter to Philemon, Paul's self-identification as a "geron" serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it underscores his personal humility and vulnerability, as he is not only aged but also imprisoned for his faith. This personal appeal is intended to evoke compassion and a sense of duty in Philemon, encouraging him to receive Onesimus not as a slave but as a brother in Christ.

Secondly, the use of "geron" reflects the cultural respect for elders in both Jewish and Greco-Roman societies. Elders were often seen as wise and deserving of honor, and Paul's reference to his age may have been intended to remind Philemon of the respect due to him as an apostle and elder in the faith.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, Paul's use of "geron" can be seen as an embodiment of the Christian virtues of humility and love. Despite his apostolic authority, Paul chooses to appeal to Philemon not through command but through love and personal relationship. This approach aligns with the broader Christian teaching that emphasizes love and mutual respect within the body of Christ.

Furthermore, the mention of Paul's age and imprisonment highlights the cost of discipleship and the sacrifices made by early Christian leaders. It serves as a reminder of the perseverance and dedication required in the Christian life, especially for those in leadership positions.

Historical and Cultural Background:
In the ancient world, age was often associated with wisdom and authority. Elders held significant roles in both Jewish and Greco-Roman communities, often serving as leaders, judges, and advisors. The respect for elders is evident in various biblical passages, such as Leviticus 19:32, which instructs, "You are to rise in the presence of the elderly, honor the aged, and fear your God. I am the LORD" .

Paul's identification as a "geron" would have resonated with his audience, who would have understood the cultural implications of his age and status. It also reflects the early Christian community's structure, where elders played a crucial role in guiding and nurturing the faith of believers.

Conclusion:
While the term "geron" appears only once in the New Testament, its use by Paul in the letter to Philemon carries significant weight. It serves as a testament to Paul's character, his approach to leadership, and the values of the early Christian community. Through this term, Paul effectively communicates his appeal for love, reconciliation, and the transformative power of the gospel.GERON

ge'-run (Geron): Not much seems to be gained by translating with the Revised Version, margin "Geron, an Athenian," for "an old man of Athens" in 2 Maccabees 6:1.

1088. geron -- an old man
... 1087, 1088. geron. 1089 . ... old. Of uncertain affinity (compare geras); aged --
old. see GREEK geras. (geron) -- 1 Occurrence. 1087, 1088. geron. 1089 . ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1088.htm - 6k

1087. gerousia -- a council of elders
... Word Origin from geron Definition a council of elders NASB Word Usage Senate (1). ...
From geron; the eldership, ie (collectively) the Jewish Sanhedrin -- senate. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1087.htm - 6k

1094. geras -- old age
... word Definition old age NASB Word Usage old age (1). old age. Akin to geron; senility --
old age. see GREEK geron. (gerei) -- 1 Occurrence. 1093, 1094. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1094.htm - 6k

Letter ix. To Maximus the Philosopher.
... 25: "crede mihi; bene qui latuit, bene vixit," and Eurip., Iph. in Aul. 17: Zelo
se, geron, Zelo d' andron hos akindunon Bion exeperas' agnos aklees. ...
/.../basil/basil letters and select works/letter ix to maximus the.htm

Paul Before his Conversion.
... 9), that is, about or above sixty. According to Hippocrates a man was called presbutes
from forty-nine to fifty-six, and after that geron, senes. ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 30 paul before his.htm

Geron
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GERON. ge'-run (Geron): Not much seems to
be gained by translating with the Revised Version, margin ...
/g/geron.htm - 6k

Zeus (3 Occurrences)
... Epiphanes, "who on God's altars danced," bent upon the thorough Hellenization of
Judea and Jerusalem, sent "an old man of Athens" (or "Geron an Athenian," the ...
/z/zeus.htm - 8k

Gerrenians

/g/gerrenians.htm - 7k

Germ (2 Occurrences)

/g/germ.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus