Lexical Summary Aristoboulos: Aristobulus Original Word: Ἀριστόβουλος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Aristobulus. From the same as ariston and boule; best counselling; Aristoboulus, a Christian -- Aristobulus. see GREEK ariston see GREEK boule NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as Aristarchos and boulé Definition "best-counseling," Aristobulus, a Christian at Rome NASB Translation Aristobulus (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 711: ἈριστόβουλοςἈριστόβουλος, Ἀριστοβούλου, ὁ (literally, best-counselling), Aristobulus a certain Christian (cf. B. D. American edition under the word and Lightfoot on Philippians, p. 174f): Romans 16:10. Topical Lexicon Appearance in Scripture “Greet those belonging to the household of Aristobulus.” (Romans 16:10) Historical Perspectives on the Name Aristobulus was a well-known Greek name during the late Second Temple era, borne by several prominent figures associated with the Herodian line and with the imperial court at Rome. Two individuals have been proposed as possible identifications for the man behind Romans 16:10: 1. Aristobulus, grandson of Herod the Great, who lived in Rome under imperial patronage and died before Paul wrote his letter. Either identification would explain why Paul greets the οἱ ἐκ (those of) Aristobulus rather than Aristobulus himself, implying that the head of the household was deceased or absent while his dependents and servants—many of whom were likely slaves—had become believers. The Household of Aristobulus Paul’s greeting highlights the strategic penetration of the gospel into influential Roman households. In the social structure of the day, a household (οἰκία) extended far beyond the nuclear family to include servants, freedmen, and clients. Thus, when members of such a household came to faith, they carried the message of Christ into every stratum of the capital city. The notice also reveals the apostle’s pastoral care for believers of all social ranks, fulfilling his own words that in Christ “there is neither slave nor free” (Galatians 3:28). Social and Ministry Implications 1. Gospel advance among slaves: Many scholars believe the majority of first-century Christians in Rome were slaves or freedmen. By naming households like Aristobulus’s, Paul dignifies these believers as integral partners in the mission. Theological Significance • Unity in diversity: The inclusion of a Herodian or imperial household alongside Jewish and Gentile believers embodies the one new humanity created in Christ (Ephesians 2:14–16). Applications for Contemporary Discipleship • Value every member: Churches should recognize and affirm the ministries of people in every vocational and social position, knowing that influence for Christ is not limited to public figures. Key Takeaways Romans 16:10’s brief reference to Aristobulus opens a window into the early church’s reach, resilience, and redemptive impact within the very heart of the Roman Empire. The household model, social diversity, and quiet but powerful advance of the gospel evident in this single verse continue to instruct and inspire the people of God. Forms and Transliterations Αριστοβουλου Ἀριστοβούλου Aristoboulou AristoboúlouLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |