The name Akylas (Aquila) is the Latin/Greek word for 'eagle,' symbolizing swiftness, strength, and keen sight. Aquila was a Jewish tentmaker from Pontus, husband of Priscilla, who became one of the most important co-workers of the Apostle Paul and a key leader in the early church.
Aquila and Priscilla (Prisca) are one of the most remarkable ministry partnerships in the New Testament. Paul met them in Corinth after they had been expelled from Rome by Claudius's edict (Acts 18:2) and worked with them as fellow tentmakers. They accompanied Paul to Ephesus, where they took the eloquent Apollos aside and 'explained to him the way of God more accurately' (Acts 18:26). They hosted a church in their home both in Ephesus and later in Rome (Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 16:19). Paul calls them 'fellow workers in Christ Jesus' who 'risked their necks' for his life (Romans 16:3-4). Aquila's name — Eagle — fits his role as one who soared above ordinary commitment to Christ and sustained the church through hospitality, teaching, and sacrifice.