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Bible Encyclopedias
Niger
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature
or (Νίγερ , i.e. Lat. niger, or black) is the additional or distinctive name given to the Symeon (Συμεών ) who was one of the teachers and prophets in the Church of Antioch (Acts 13:1). He is not known except in that passage. The name was a common one among the Romans; and the conjecture that he was an African proselyte, and was called Niger on account of his complexion, is unnecessary as well as destitute otherwise of any support. His name, Symeon, shows that he was a Jew by birth; and, as in other similar cases (e.g. Saul, Paul — Silas, Silvanus), he may be supposed to have taken the other name as more convenient in his intercourse with foreigners. He is mentioned second among the five who officiated at Antioch, and perhaps we may infer that he had some pre-eminence among them in point of activity and influence. It is impossible to decide (though Meyer makes the attempt) who of the number were prophets (προφῆται ), and who were teachers (διδάσκαλοι ). (See SIMEON).
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McClintock, John. Strong, James. Entry for 'Niger'. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/tce/n/niger.html. Harper & Brothers. New York. 1870.
