barbarian Summary and Overview

a Greek word used in the New Testament (Rom. 1:14) to denote one of another nation. In Col. 3:11, the word more definitely designates those nations of the Roman empire that did not speak Greek. In 1 Cor. 14:11, it simply refers to one speaking a different language. The inhabitants of Malta are so called (Acts 28:1,2, 4). They were originally a Carthaginian colony. This word nowhere in Scripture bears the meaning it does in modern times.

"every one not a Greek is a barbarian" is the common Greek definition, and in this strict sense the word is sued in #Ro 1:14| It often retains this primitive meaning, as in #1Co 14:11; Ac 28:24|

BARBA'RIAN . This term is used to denote any one who was not a Greek. In its scriptural use it does not import any rudeness or savageness of nature or manners. Acts 28:2, Ex 6:4 and Rom 1:14.

All not Greek, in contrast to the Greeks (Romans 1:14). Primitively all speaking an unknown tongue (1 Corinthians 14:11); the Maltese, as speaking a Punic dialect (Acts 28:2; Acts 28:4). Subsequently the word implied cruelty and savagery. Distinguished from Scythians, the wild races beyond the Roman empire; "barbarians" were within it (Colossians 3:11).