# Antipas of Pergamum

> 1st century Christian bishop and martyr regarded as subject of Revelation 2:13

**Wikidata**: [Q559936](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q559936)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antipas_of_Pergamum)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/antipas-of-pergamum

## Summary
Antipas of Pergamum was a 1st century Christian bishop and martyr who is regarded as the subject of Revelation 2:13 in the New Testament. He served as a presbyter in Ancient Rome and is recognized as a saint in Christian tradition.

## Biography
- Born: 1st century AD (exact date unknown)
- Nationality: Roman citizen
- Education: Not specified in source material
- Known for: Christian bishop and martyr mentioned in Revelation 2:13
- Employer(s): Christian church in Pergamum
- Field(s): Christian ministry and leadership

## Contributions
Antipas of Pergamum's primary contribution was his role as a Christian bishop and presbyter in the early church. He is specifically mentioned in the Book of Revelation as a faithful witness who was martyred for his faith in Pergamum, one of the seven churches addressed in Revelation. His martyrdom is considered significant in early Christian history as an example of steadfast faith under persecution.

## FAQs
**Who was Antipas of Pergamum?**
Antipas of Pergamum was a 1st century Christian bishop and presbyter who served in the city of Pergamum during the Roman Empire. He is mentioned in the New Testament Book of Revelation as a faithful witness who was martyred for his Christian faith.

**What is Antipas of Pergamum known for?**
He is primarily known for being mentioned in Revelation 2:13 as a faithful Christian martyr who was killed in Pergamum. The passage describes him as someone who was killed "where Satan lives," referring to the city's reputation for pagan worship and emperor cult practices.

**Where did Antipas of Pergamum serve?**
He served as a Christian leader (bishop/presbyter) in Pergamum, which was a major city in the Roman province of Asia (modern-day Turkey). Pergamum was one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation.

## Why They Matter
Antipas of Pergamum matters as an early Christian martyr whose story is preserved in Scripture, providing historical evidence of Christian persecution in the Roman Empire during the 1st century. His mention in Revelation serves as an encouragement to persecuted Christians throughout history and demonstrates the early church's willingness to remain faithful despite facing death. As one of the few individuals named in Revelation, his example has been particularly influential in Christian tradition regarding martyrdom and steadfast faith.

## Notable For
- Being one of the few individuals specifically named in the Book of Revelation
- Serving as an early Christian bishop/presbyter in Pergamum
- Being recognized as a Christian martyr and saint
- Providing historical evidence of Christian persecution in 1st century Roman Asia
- His mention in Scripture as a "faithful witness" who was killed for his faith

## Body
### Early Life and Background
Antipas lived during the 1st century AD, a period when Christianity was emerging as a distinct religious movement within the Roman Empire. He was a citizen of Ancient Rome, living in the province of Asia, specifically in the city of Pergamum. This city was known for its pagan temples and emperor worship, making it a challenging environment for early Christians.

### Ministry in Pergamum
As a presbyter (elder) and bishop, Antipas would have been responsible for overseeing the Christian community in Pergamum. The city was one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation, indicating its significance in early Christianity. Pergamum was known for its pagan practices and the worship of Asclepius (the healing god) and Zeus, as well as the imperial cult that demanded worship of the Roman emperor as divine.

### Martyrdom
According to Revelation 2:13, Antipas was martyred in Pergamum, described as the place "where Satan lives." This reference likely points to the city's reputation for pagan worship and opposition to Christianity. While the specific details of his martyrdom are not provided in Scripture, early Christian tradition holds that he was killed for refusing to participate in pagan rituals and maintaining his Christian faith.

### Historical Significance
Antipas's mention in Revelation provides valuable historical evidence of Christian presence and persecution in Asia Minor during the 1st century. His designation as a "faithful witness" (the same Greek word used for Christ as "faithful witness" in Revelation 1:5) indicates his exemplary faith and testimony. The fact that he is named individually, rather than as part of a group, suggests his particular importance to the Christian community in Pergamum.

### Legacy
Antipas has been venerated as a saint in various Christian traditions, particularly in Eastern Orthodox Christianity. His feast day is celebrated on April 11 in some traditions. As one of the few named martyrs from the apostolic age, he has served as an inspiration for Christians facing persecution throughout history. His story demonstrates the early church's commitment to maintaining faith even under threat of death, and his example continues to be referenced in discussions of Christian martyrdom and faithfulness.

## References

1. Bible
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. Catalog of the German National Library
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013