Illustration created for this project.
Publius
The leading man of Malta who welcomed the shipwrecked Paul and whose father Paul healed.
What we know — and how we know it
Bible — stated in scripture (with verse) · 1
Archaeology — physical evidence · 1
Life, role & deeds
Bible'The chief man of the island' of Malta, who lodged Paul after the shipwreck; Paul healed his father of a fever.
Acts 28:7–8
ArchaeologyLuke's title 'the first man (protos) of the island' matches Maltese inscriptions that use exactly this rank for the island's leading official.
Greek inscription IG XIV 601 and Latin CIL X 7495 from Malta, recording the title 'prōtos Melitaiōn' / 'primus omnium Melitensium' ('first of the Maltese') for the island's chief official; cf. Acts 28:7
Where in scripture
ActsPlaces in their life
Photo: Francesco Maltese — Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)