The Greek word martyr signifies a “witness” who testifies to a fact he has knowledge about from personal observation. It is in this sense that the term first appears in the Book of Acts, in reference to the Apostles as “witnesses” of all that they had observed in the public life of Christ.
Who are the two martyrs in the Bible?
Stephen and St. James. Of the apostles the most important martyrs were SS. Peter and Paul, both put to death at Rome.
Where did the word martyr come from?
The word martyr itself derives from the Greek for “witness”, originally applied to the apostles who had witnessed Christ’s life and resurrection. Later it was used to describe those who, arrested and on trial, admitted to being Christians.
What is the true definition of martyr?
Full Definition of martyr
(Entry 1 of 2) 1 : a person who voluntarily suffers death as the penalty of witnessing to and refusing to renounce a religion. 2 : a person who sacrifices something of great value and especially life itself for the sake of principle a martyr to the cause of freedom.
Was Paul a martyr?
The exact details of St. Paul’s death are unknown, but tradition holds that he was beheaded in Rome and thus died as a martyr for his faith. His death was perhaps part of the executions of Christians ordered by the Roman emperor Nero following the great fire in the city in 64 CE.
Who are the martyrs in the New Testament?
According to the Gospels and Acts of the Apostles
- Holy Innocents of Bethlehem.
- John the Baptist.
- Stephen (Protomartyr)
- James, son of Zebedee.