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G923 · Greek · New Testament
Βερνίκη
Bernikē
Proper Noun, feminine
Victorious (personal name)

Definition

Bernikē (Bernice) is a Greek/Macedonian name meaning "she who brings victory" or simply "victorious." It is a variant of Pherenikē. In the New Testament, Bernice appears in Acts 25–26 as the sister of King Herod Agrippa II, who was present when Paul made his famous defense before Festus and Agrippa.

Usage & Theological Significance

Bernice's historical reputation was scandalous — ancient sources report an incestuous relationship with her brother Agrippa. Yet God sovereignly positioned this morally compromised queen in the audience of Paul's Spirit-filled testimony. When Paul declared that "King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets?" (Acts 26:27), Bernice was present — a witness to the gospel's power to cut through any court. Her presence reminds us that God sends His word into the darkest of royal chambers, and no human audience is beyond the reach of grace.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 25:13 Now when some days had passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice arrived at Caesarea and greeted Festus.
Acts 25:23 So on the next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp.
Acts 26:30 Then the king rose, and the governor and Bernice and those who were sitting with them.
1 Corinthians 1:26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.
Acts 26:28 And Agrippa said to Paul, 'In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?'

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