Philemon, Epistle To
TextsWhat is the meaning of Philemon, Epistle To in the Bible?
This epistle is recognized as one of the most personal and humanistic of Paul's writings, composed to Philemon concerning his slave Onesimus. Scholarly consensus generally places the composition in Rome, though alternative theories suggest Caesarea Maritima.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
The text provides critical historical context for understanding early Christian social dynamics, specifically the tension between Roman slavery laws and emerging Christian ethics regarding human dignity and reconciliation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Philemon, Epistle To functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Philemon, Epistle To in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Philemon, Epistle To 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
"Philemon, Epistle To." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/philemon-epistle-to/