The Identity of the Centurion's Pais in Matthew 8:5–13: A Narrative Approach

Abstract

In Matthean studies the identity of the centurion's παῖς, "servant, servant boy, child," who was suffering at home is not clear (Matt 8:5-13). This is due to the fact that from a lexical point of view παῖς could be translated as "boy" or as "servant." If it is interpreted as a boy, then the of the Gospel reader understands that the centurion probably was concerned about his son's health. On the other hand, if the centurion was worried because one of his servants or slaves was suffering, the reader may consider the centurion as a good master. This paper proposes to analyse the identity of the centurion's παῖς considering two approaches: the use of παῖς in the LXX and, the use of παῖς in the Gospel of Matthew by applying narrative critical techniques.

Key Words: Matthew 8, centurion, slave, son, narrative approach