Bible Dictionary
Carpus
Carpus was a Christian at Troas with whom Paul left a cloak, books, and parchments. He is mentioned once in the New Testament.
Definition
Carpus was a Christian at Troas who kept Paul’s cloak, books, and parchments. He is mentioned only once in the New Testament.
Biblical Usage
Paul asked Timothy to bring the cloak, books, and parchments that he had left with Carpus at Troas. The request indicates that Paul entrusted these belongings to Carpus’s care.
Historical Background
Carpus was presumably acquainted closely with Paul and may have been one of his converts. His name was common in Paul’s day, but his further identity is unknown.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
a Christian at Troas. (2 Timothy 4:13)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>kar'-pus (Karpos): A name but once mentioned in the New Testament (2Ti 4:13), "the cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus." These words were written from the dungeons, where Paul was confined during his second imprisonment. The name, common enough in Paul's day, signifies "fruit" (Young) or "wrist" (Davis). The words indicate that Paul must have been very well acquainted with the family of Carpus. He was presumably one of his converts; and the apostle must have lodged with him and also have had considerable confidence in him, since he committed to his care not only the comparatively valueless "cloak," but especially the priceless "books and parchments." It is idle to attempt to find out the identity of Carpus, but one cannot help wondering what were the contents of these books and parchments for which the apostle longed in his bitter second imprisonment.</p><p>Henry E. Dosken</p>