Patroclus
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Patroclus in the Bible?
Patroclus was a Syrian general and the father of Nicanor, mentioned in 2 Maccabees 8:9.
SIGNIFICANCE
Identifying Patroclus clarifies the familial background of Nicanor, illustrating the complex network of Hellenistic military leadership that the Maccabees opposed.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Patroclus reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Patroclus in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Patroclus clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Patroclus." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/patroclus/