Nympha is a biblical figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Colossians. Her mention is brief, yet it provides insight into the early Christian communities and the role of women within them.

Biblical Reference:

Nympha is referenced in Colossians 4:15, where Paul writes: "Greet the brothers in Laodicea, as well as Nympha and the church that meets at her house."

Context and Significance:

Nympha is noted for hosting a church in her home, which indicates her significant role in the early Christian community. During the first century, it was common for believers to gather in private homes for worship, teaching, and fellowship, as there were no dedicated church buildings. This practice highlights the intimate and communal nature of early Christian worship.

The mention of Nympha's house church suggests that she was a person of some means, as owning a home large enough to accommodate a gathering would require a certain level of wealth. It also implies that she was a respected and trusted member of the Christian community, capable of providing leadership and hospitality.

Textual Variations:

There is some textual variation regarding Nympha's name and gender in different manuscript traditions. Some manuscripts refer to the individual as "Nymphas," suggesting a male host. However, the majority of modern translations, including the Berean Standard Bible, recognize the name as "Nympha," identifying her as a woman. This reflects the broader scholarly consensus based on the most reliable manuscripts.

Role of Women in the Early Church:

Nympha's role as a host of a house church is significant in understanding the participation of women in the early church. Women like Nympha, Lydia (Acts 16:14-15), and Priscilla (Acts 18:2) played crucial roles in the spread of Christianity. They provided not only logistical support by opening their homes but also spiritual leadership and mentorship within their communities.

The mention of Nympha in Paul's letter underscores the inclusive nature of the early Christian movement, where both men and women were active participants in the mission of the church. Her example serves as a testament to the diverse and dynamic nature of early Christian leadership.

Conclusion:

While the biblical account of Nympha is brief, her mention in Colossians provides valuable insight into the early church's structure and the vital role women played in its development. Her hospitality and leadership exemplify the active participation of women in the life of the early Christian communities.1. (n.) Same as Nymph.

2. (n.) Two folds of mucous membrane, within the labia, at the opening of the vulva.

3564. Numpha -- Nympha, a Christian of Laodicea
... Nympha, a Christian of Laodicea. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration:
Numpha Phonetic Spelling: (noom-fas') Short Definition: Nymphas Definition ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3564.htm - 6k

Concerning Festivals in Honour of Emperors, victories, and the ...
... supposed to dwell. Nympha is supposed to be the same word as Lympha. See
Hor. Sat. i. 5, 97; and Macleane's note. [281] [He seems ...
/.../tertullian/on idolatry/chapter xv concerning festivals in honour.htm

George Buchanan, Scholar
... hopes, of a sunny opening and a stormy end, as one finds in turning the leaves of
the volume which contains the beautiful epigram 'Nympha Caledoniae' in one ...
/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/george buchanan scholar.htm

Nympha (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Nympha (1 Occurrence). Colossians 4:15 Greet the brothers
who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the assembly that is in his house. ...
/n/nympha.htm - 6k

Nymphas (1 Occurrence)
... Nymphas-or if Nympha be read, then it is a Christian lady who is meant-was a person
of outstanding worth and importance in the church of Laodicea, for he had ...
/n/nymphas.htm - 9k

Nuts (2 Occurrences)

/n/nuts.htm - 8k

Nympha: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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