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G28 · Greek · New Testament
Ἁγρίππας
Agrippas
Proper noun (name)
Agrippa — Herod Agrippa II

Definition

The Greek proper noun Agrippas (Ἁγρίππας) is the name of Herod Agrippa II (c. 27–92 AD), great-grandson of Herod the Great, who appears in Acts 25-26. Paul was brought before Agrippa and his sister Bernice at Caesarea, where he delivered one of his most powerful speeches — his personal testimony and defense of the resurrection.

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul's audience with Agrippa (Acts 26) is one of the great apologetic moments of the New Testament. When Festus the Roman governor called Paul's learning madness, Paul appealed directly to Agrippa's knowledge of Jewish scriptures and prophecy: "King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you believe" (Acts 26:27). Agrippa's response — "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" (v. 28) — is one of Scripture's most poignant near-conversions. The man who held authority over Paul was himself one question away from the kingdom. The episode teaches that proximity to truth is not the same as submission to it. Paul, the prisoner, was freer than the king.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 26:1
Then Agrippa said to Paul, 'You have permission to speak for yourself.' So Paul motioned with his hand and began his defense.
Acts 26:27-28
"King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do." Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?"
Acts 26:32
Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar."
Acts 25:23
The next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp and entered the audience room with the high-ranking military officers and the prominent men of the city.
Acts 26:29
Paul replied, "Short time or long — I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains."

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