Kyria is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Second Epistle of John. The name "Kyria" is often translated as "lady" or "elect lady," and there is some debate among scholars and theologians regarding whether Kyria is a proper name or a title. The Berean Standard Bible translates the relevant passage as follows: "The elder, To the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I alone, but also all who know the truth—" (2 John 1:1).

Identity and Interpretation

The identity of Kyria has been a subject of discussion. Some interpretations suggest that Kyria is a specific individual, a woman of notable standing within the early Christian community. This view holds that she was a leader or a prominent member of a house church, possibly hosting gatherings of believers in her home. The personal nature of the letter, along with the mention of her "children," supports the idea that she was a real person with a family or a group of spiritual followers.

Alternatively, some scholars propose that "Kyria" is a symbolic reference to a local church or the Church as a whole. In this interpretation, the "children" would represent the members of the congregation. This metaphorical understanding aligns with the use of feminine imagery for the Church found elsewhere in Scripture.

Theological Significance

The letter to Kyria emphasizes themes of truth, love, and obedience to God's commandments. The apostle John writes, "And now I ask you, dear lady—not as a new commandment to you, but one we have had from the beginning—that we love one another" (2 John 1:5). This exhortation underscores the foundational Christian principle of love, which is to be expressed in the context of truth.

John also warns Kyria about deceivers and false teachers, urging her to remain steadfast in the teachings of Christ: "If anyone comes to you but does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home or even greet him" (2 John 1:10). This instruction highlights the importance of discernment and the protection of the community from doctrinal error.

Historical Context

The early Christian community faced numerous challenges, including persecution and the spread of false teachings. Letters such as 2 John were crucial for maintaining doctrinal purity and encouraging believers to adhere to the apostolic teachings. Kyria, whether an individual or a representation of a church, serves as an example of the role women played in the early Church, contributing to the spread and preservation of the faith.

Conclusion

The brief mention of Kyria in the New Testament provides a glimpse into the dynamics of the early Christian communities and the vital role of women within them. Her inclusion in the biblical narrative, whether as an individual or a symbolic figure, reflects the emphasis on truth, love, and vigilance against false teachings that characterized the apostolic era.

I Believe in the Holy Ghost; the Holy Christian Church, the ...
... nothing else than a common assembly and is not German by idiom, but Greek (as is
also the word ecclesia); for in their own language they call it kyria, as in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/luther/the large catechism/i believe in the holy.htm

The Epistles of St. John
... Perhaps it is mentioned, for the words translated "the elect lady" may mean "the
elect Kyria." The "house" of the lady (ver.10) also suggests that the lady is ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xxiii the epistles of.htm

Kyria (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kyria (2 Occurrences). 2 John 1:1 The Elder to
the choice Kyria, and to her children, whom I love in truth ...
/k/kyria.htm - 6k

Kusha'iah (1 Occurrence)
Kusha'iah. Kushaiah, Kusha'iah. Kyria . Multi-Version Concordance Kusha'iah
(1 Occurrence). ... Kushaiah, Kusha'iah. Kyria . Reference Bible.
/k/kusha'iah.htm - 6k

Lady (37 Occurrences)
... Second Epistle of John is addressed (2 John 1:1). Some think that the word rendered
"lady" is a proper name, and thus that the expression should be "elect Kyria...
/l/lady.htm - 22k

Laadah (1 Occurrence)

/l/laadah.htm - 7k

Elect (32 Occurrences)
... Second Epistle of John is addressed (2 John 1:1). Some think that the word rendered
"lady" is a proper name, and thus that the expression should be "elect Kyria...
/e/elect.htm - 21k

Choice (113 Occurrences)
... 2 John 1:1 The Elder to the choice Kyria, and to her children, whom I love in truth,
and not I only, but also all those having known the truth, (YLT). ...
/c/choice.htm - 38k

John (154 Occurrences)
... to "the elect lady," and closes with the words, "The children of thy elect sister
greet thee;" but some would read instead of "lady" the proper name Kyria. ...
/j/john.htm - 101k

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