The Definition of the word Nazarene

Nazarene

This epithet (Gr. Nazaraios) is applied to Christ only once "(Matt. 2:23). In all other cases the word is rendered "of" "Nazareth" (Mark 1:24; 10:47; 14:67, etc.). When this Greek" "designation was at first applied to our Lord, it was meant" simply to denote the place of his residence. In course of time "the word became a term of reproach. Thus the word "Nazarene" carries with it an allusion to those prophecies which speak of "Christ as "despised of men" (Isa. 53:3). Some, however, think" "that in this name there is an allusion to the Hebrew netser," which signifies a branch or sprout. It is so applied to the "Messiah (Isa. 11:1), i.e., he whom the prophets called the" "Netse, the "Branch." "The followers of Christ were called "the sect of Nazarenes" (Acts 24:5). All over Palestine and Syria this name is still given to Christians. (See [429]NAZARETH.)