The Greek Aristarchos (Ἀρίσταρχος) means 'best ruler' or 'excellent chief' — from aristos (best) and archos (ruler). Aristarchus was a Macedonian from Thessalonica who was one of Paul's most faithful companions, traveling with him on the third missionary journey, present during the Ephesus riot, sailing with Paul to Rome, and remaining with him during his imprisonment.
Aristarchus is one of the unsung heroes of early Christianity. He was present at the Ephesus riot (Acts 19:29 — seized by the mob), sailed with Paul through the deadly Mediterranean storm (Acts 27), and shared Paul's imprisonment in Rome (Col 4:10; Phlm 24). He is the model of costly, unglamorous loyalty. While others came and went, Aristarchus stayed — even when staying meant arrest, danger, and prison. Paul calls him his 'fellow prisoner' and 'fellow worker.' True ministry is not always doing spectacular things; sometimes it is simply refusing to leave when leaving would be safer. The Aristarchuses of every age make the Pauls possible.