Elymas, also known as Bar-jesus, is a significant figure in the New Testament book of Acts. He is primarily known for his role as an antagonist to the Apostle Paul during the first missionary journey, representing the conflict between the power of the Gospel and the influence of the occult.
The Scriptural Record
Elymas appears in the account of Paul and Barnabas’s visit to Paphos on the island of Cyprus.
“And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus: Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.” (Acts 13:6–8, KJV)
His Identity and Confrontation
Elymas occupied a position of considerable influence as an advisor to Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul (deputy).
- The Sorcerer: He is described as a magos, a term referring to a practitioner of the magical arts or an astrologer.
- The Deceiver: Despite being a Jew, he was a “false prophet,” using his heritage and occultic skills to maintain political power.
- The Judgment: When Elymas attempted to prevent the proconsul from believing the Gospel, Paul, filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him and rebuked him. Paul called him a “child of the devil” and an “enemy of all righteousness.”
- The Blindness: As a sign of divine judgment, Elymas was struck with temporary blindness. He was forced to seek someone to lead him by the hand, a physical manifestation of his spiritual darkness (Acts 13:11).
Etymology and Meaning
There are two names associated with this man, each carrying a different weight:
- Bar-jesus: A patronymic name meaning “Son of Joshua” or “Son of Jesus.” This was a common name, but in this context, it highlights the irony of a man named “Son of Salvation” acting as an instrument of spiritual destruction.
- Elymas: Luke explains that this is his name “by interpretation.” It is likely derived from the Arabic alim or the Aramaic root for “Wise” or “Skilled.” It was a self-appointed title intended to project an image of superior knowledge and occult wisdom.
Historical and Theological Significance
Elymas serves as a Type of Spiritual Opposition. His story marks a major turning point in the Book of Acts:
- Paul’s Emergence: This is the moment where “Saul” begins to be called “Paul” and takes the lead in the missionary narrative.
- The Defeat of Darkness: The blinding of Elymas demonstrated that the power of the Holy Spirit is far superior to the “lying wonders” of sorcery.
- The Conversion of Authority: The judgment on Elymas was so decisive that the “prudent” Sergius Paulus believed the Gospel immediately, “being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord” (Acts 13:12).
In a forensic sense, Elymas represents the “gatekeepers” of worldly power who use deception to keep others from the Truth. His temporary blindness served as a mercy—a call to recognize his own lack of sight—while also removing his ability to hinder the work of God.