Name and Etymologies:

 

Joseph, named by his Hellenic Jewish parents (though the Byzantine text-type refers to him as Ἰωσῆς, Iōsēs, a Greek variant of 'Joseph'), acquired the appellation Barnabas when the apostles in Jerusalem recognized him after he sold his land and donated the proceeds. The Greek term in Acts 4:36, υἱὸς παρακλήσεως (hyios paraklēseōs), translates to "son of encouragement" or "son of consolation." Possible origins include the Aramaic בר נחמה (bar neḥmā), meaning 'son (of) consolation,' or a connection to the Hebrew word nabī (נביא, Aramaic nebī), signifying "prophet."

 

Biblical Narrative:

 

Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus, initially appeared in Acts as a member of the early Christian community in Jerusalem. He played a pivotal role in introducing Paul to the apostles upon Paul's return to Jerusalem after conversion. Barnabas was sent to oversee the Christian movement in Antioch, and later, he and Paul undertook a missionary journey, contributing to the acceptance of Gentiles into the church. Disagreements arose between Barnabas and Paul, leading to their separation, with each embarking on different routes.

 

Later Life:

 

Little is known about Barnabas's life after the disagreement, but he was alive in 56 or 57, according to Paul's letter to the Corinthians. The reference also indicates that their friendship persisted. The subsequent journey of Barnabas is not extensively documented, and his eventual fate is unclear.

 

Barnabas and Antioch:

 

Antioch, a significant city in the Roman Empire, became a hub for early Christians. A portion of the Antioch church, including Barnabas, supported the impoverished Jerusalem church. Barnabas's association with Antioch played a crucial role in the development of early Christianity.

 

Martyrdom:

 

Tradition outside the New Testament canon suggests that Barnabas met a martyr's fate. Accounts describe Jews opposing his successful gospel preaching in Syria and Salamis, leading to his stoning. The legend, while widely accepted, includes variations, with some sources suggesting death by burning.

 

Veneration:

 

Barnabas is venerated as a saint, apostle, disciple, preacher, and martyr. His feast day is celebrated on June 11. He is revered in various Christian traditions, including the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Churches, Oriental Orthodox Churches, Anglican Communion, and Lutheran Church. The Monastery of St. Barnabas in Famagusta, Cyprus, is considered a major shrine dedicated to him. Barnabas is invoked as a patron saint for Cyprus, Antioch, protection against hailstorms, and as a peacemaker.