Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for ἱππεύς, the concept of horsemen or cavalry is present in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word פָּרָשׁ (parash, Strong's Hebrew 6571) is often used to describe horsemen or charioteers, reflecting a similar role in ancient Israelite and surrounding cultures. This term appears in various contexts, such as in 1 Kings 10:26, which describes Solomon's accumulation of chariots and horsemen.

Usage: The term ἱππεύς is used in the New Testament to refer to horsemen or cavalry, typically in a military context.

Context: The Greek term ἱππεύς (hippeús) appears in the New Testament to describe individuals who are mounted on horses, often in a military capacity. This term is rooted in the Greek word ἵππος, which means "horse," indicating the primary role of these individuals as riders or cavalrymen. In the ancient world, cavalry units were crucial for their speed and mobility, providing strategic advantages in warfare.

In the New Testament, the term is used in contexts that highlight the presence and role of cavalry in the Roman military. For example, in Acts 23:23, the term is used to describe the Roman soldiers who were assigned to escort Paul safely to Governor Felix: "Then he called two of his centurions and said, 'Prepare two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at the third hour of the night.'" (BSB)

The presence of horsemen in the Roman army underscores the might and organization of Roman military forces during the time of the early Christian church. The use of cavalry was a significant factor in maintaining control over the vast territories of the Roman Empire, and their mention in the New Testament provides insight into the historical and cultural backdrop of the early Christian narrative.