Theological Term of the Week: Amanuensis
Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 3:30AM 
A scribe or secretary employed to assist an author of the Bible or other texts by writing down what is dictated and sometimes helping with syntax and grammar.
- From scripture:
I Tertius, who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord. (Romans 15:22 ESV)
By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. (1 Peter 5:12)
- From The Pocket Dictionary of Biblical Studies by Arthur G. Patzia and Anthony J. Petrotta:
Tertius is named the “writer” of Romans (16:22). Paul also employed other individuals, and he draws attention to the fact by commenting that he is closing the letter in his own hand. (cf. 1 Cor 16:21; Gal 6:11; Col 4:18; 2 Thess 3:17). Silvanus is identified as Peter’s amanuensis (1 Pet 5:12). This practice of using secretaries (Jer 36:4) may account for some differences in style and language in some NT letters attributed to Paul and Peter.
Learn more:
- Blue Letter Bible: Were Some of the Biblical Books Actually Written by a Scribe Rather than by the Named Author? (An Amanuensis)
Related terms:
Do you have a a theological term you’d like to see featured as a Theological Term of the Week? Email your suggestion using the contact button in the navigation bar above.
Clicking on the Theological Terms button above the header will take you to an alphabetical list of all the theological terms.
