Barnabas
Greek·Male·1st century·Cyprus
Barnabas was a prominent Christian disciple identified as an apostle and a Cypriot Levite. He is known for his missionary journeys as a companion of Paul the Apostle, evangelizing among Gentiles, and for his participation in the Council of Jerusalem. Christian tradition holds him as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church and a martyr.
Key Facts
- ›Identified as an apostle in Acts 14:14.
- ›A Cypriot Levite according to Acts 4:36.
- ›Undertook missionary journeys with Paul the Apostle.
- ›Participated in the Council of Jerusalem (C. 49 AD).
- ›Traditionally identified as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church.
- ›Feast day is celebrated on 11 June.
Epistle To the Hebrews, Epistle of Barnabas
Apostle, Saint, Patron Saint of Cyprus
1st Century Ad
Anatolia, Jerusalem, Antioch, Cyprus
Council of Jerusalem
Cypriot Orthodox Church, Barnabites
Apostle, Martyr
About Barnabas
Barnabas was a significant figure in early Christianity, identified in the New Testament as an apostle and described in the Acts of the Apostles as a Levite from Cyprus. His original name was Joseph (or Joses), but he was given the name Barnabas by the apostles, which is understood to mean "son of encouragement" or "son of comforter." This epithet reflects his supportive role in the nascent Christian community.
Life and Ministry
Barnabas is primarily known for his close association with Paul the Apostle. He undertook missionary journeys with Paul, evangelizing among the "God-fearing" Gentiles who attended synagogues in Hellenized cities of Anatolia. He played a crucial role in introducing Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem after Paul's conversion and later went to Tarsus to seek Paul's assistance in Antioch. Together, they labored in Antioch for a year, and later traveled to Jerusalem with contributions for poorer Christians. Barnabas also participated in the pivotal Council of Jerusalem around 49 AD, which addressed the inclusion of Gentiles in the church.
Writings and Tradition
While Barnabas is mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles and Paul's epistles, his literary contributions are a subject of tradition and scholarly debate. Tertullian attributed the Epistle to the Hebrews to him, and early church figures like Clement of Alexandria ascribed the Epistle of Barnabas to him, with the latter included under his name in the Codex Sinaiticus. However, modern scholars hold varying views on these attributions, with some concurring with the traditional view and others considering the authorship unknown or more likely from Alexandria.
Legacy and Veneration
Christian tradition holds that Barnabas was martyred at Salamis, Cyprus. He is traditionally recognized as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church and is venerated as its patron saint. Excavations have revealed early churches believed to be near his tomb. His feast day is commemorated on 11 June. Barnabas is also traditionally identified as the cousin of Mark the Evangelist, and Orthodox tradition considers Aristobulus of Britannia to be his brother.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Barnabas' original name and what does his name Barnabas mean?
Barnabas was born Joseph or Joses. The apostles called him Barnabas, which the Book of Acts explains as "son of encouragement" or "son of comforter," possibly from the Aramaic "bar neḥmā" (son of consolation) or "bar neviyā" (son of the prophet).
What role did Barnabas play in the early Christian church?
Barnabas was a prominent Christian disciple, identified as an apostle. He undertook missionary journeys as a companion of Paul the Apostle, evangelizing among Gentiles, and participated in the Council of Jerusalem.
What is Barnabas traditionally known for founding?
Christian tradition holds that Barnabas was martyred at Salamis, Cyprus, and is traditionally identified as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church.
What is the feast day of Barnabas?
The feast day of Barnabas is celebrated on 11 June.
What biblical books mention Barnabas?
Barnabas appears mainly in the Acts of the Apostles and is also mentioned in several of Paul's epistles.
Related Church Fathers
Epiphanius of Salamis
Epiphanius of Salamis was a bishop of Salamis, Cyprus, in the late 4th century, renowned as a staunch defender of orthodoxy. He is best known for his comprehensive work, the Panarion, which cataloged and refuted numerous heresies, pagan religions, and philosophical systems. Recognized as a saint by Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Churches, his theological writings and strong stances against perceived deviations from Christian doctrine made him a significant figure in late antiquity.
Patrick
Saint Patrick was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop, revered as the "Apostle of Ireland." He is the primary patron saint of Ireland and is also venerated in several major Christian denominations. Patrick is known for his missionary work in Ireland, converting thousands and ordaining priests, despite facing accusations and personal hardship.
Clement of Rome
Clement of Rome, also known as Pope Clement I, was a Bishop of Rome in the late first century and is considered the first of the Apostolic Fathers. He is primarily known for his letter to the church at Corinth (1 Clement), which is one of the oldest extant Christian documents outside the New Testament and an early affirmation of apostolic succession. While much of his life is unknown, legends describe his martyrdom under Emperor Trajan.