Timoteus

Timoteus is a given name of Greek origin, derived from the name Timotheos (Τιμόθεος). The name is composed of two parts: timē (τιμή), meaning "honor" or "value," and theos (θεός), meaning "God." Therefore, Timoteus can be interpreted as "honored by God" or "valuing God."

The most prominent historical figure bearing this name is Saint Timothy, a disciple and companion of the Apostle Paul. Timothy is mentioned extensively in the New Testament, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles and in two epistles attributed to Paul, 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy. He was a young man from Lystra, a city in Asia Minor, and his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois were devout Jewish women. Paul considered Timothy a spiritual son and entrusted him with important leadership roles within the early Christian church, including overseeing the congregation in Ephesus.

The name Timoteus has been used throughout Christian history and remains a relatively common given name in various European countries and communities with Christian traditions. Variations of the name include Timothy in English, Timothée in French, and Timotej in Slavic languages. The feast day for Saint Timothy is often observed on January 26th in various Christian denominations.