King James Version
What Does Romans 16:6 Mean?
“Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.”
Romans 16:6 · KJV
Context
4
Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.
5
Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.
6
Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
7
Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.
8
Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGreet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us—The name Μαριάμ (Mariam) is the Hebrew form, suggesting Jewish heritage, though the variant Μαρία (Maria) was common among Greeks. The verb ἐκοπίασεν (ekopiasen, 'bestowed labour') is aorist tense, pointing to specific past service, and derives from κόπος (kopos)—exhausting toil, not casual help. Paul uses this term elsewhere for apostolic ministry (1 Corinthians 15:10, Galatians 4:11, Philippians 2:16), elevating Mary's work to the same category as his own.
The phrase εἰς ὑμᾶς (eis hymas, 'on us/for you') could mean either Mary labored for Paul's team or for the Roman church—manuscripts vary between 'us' and 'you.' Either way, she's commended for gospel service, not generic 'women's ministry.' Paul names 10 women in Romans 16, six explicitly praised for ministry labor—demolishing the notion that women were passive in early church leadership. Mary's unspecified labor likely included evangelism, discipleship, hospitality, or teaching, roles Paul consistently affirms for women coworkers (Romans 16:1 Phoebe; 16:3 Priscilla; 16:7 Junia).
The phrase εἰς ὑμᾶς (eis hymas, 'on us/for you') could mean either Mary labored for Paul's team or for the Roman church—manuscripts vary between 'us' and 'you.' Either way, she's commended for gospel service, not generic 'women's ministry.' Paul names 10 women in Romans 16, six explicitly praised for ministry labor—demolishing the notion that women were passive in early church leadership. Mary's unspecified labor likely included evangelism, discipleship, hospitality, or teaching, roles Paul consistently affirms for women coworkers (Romans 16:1 Phoebe; 16:3 Priscilla; 16:7 Junia).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Romans 16 lists 26 people by name, with greetings to at least 10 house churches in Rome (vv. 5, 10, 11, 14, 15). This was written before Paul visited Rome (AD 57), suggesting he had extensive networks through travel and mutual contacts. Mary's Jewish name and her labor 'among you' suggests she was an early believer in Rome's synagogue-based Christian community, perhaps involved in the risky work of integrating Gentile converts into Jewish-Christian house churches during the Claudius expulsion aftermath (AD 49).
Reflection Questions
- How does Paul's commendation of Mary's 'labor' challenge restrictive views of women's ministry roles in the church?
- What 'exhausting toil' for the gospel might go unrecognized in your church community, and how can you honor those who serve sacrificially?
- How does Romans 16's extensive list of women in ministry inform your theology of gender roles in church leadership?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 7 wordsἀσπάσασθε1 of 7
“Greet”
G782to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome
πολλὰ4 of 7
“much”
G4183(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
εἰς6 of 7
“on”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Romans. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Romans 16:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Romans 16:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge