Peter
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Peter in the Bible?
Originally named Simon, a common Jewish name derived from the Hebrew word for 'hearing,' he was the son of Jonah and a prominent figure in the early Christian movement.
SIGNIFICANCE
His transition from a fisherman to a leadership role illustrates the social composition of early apostolic circles, while the change of his name to Peter (Petros) reflects the Greek influence on the group's identity.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Peter reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Peter in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Peter 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
"Peter." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/peter/