Learn more about Chuza

Introduction to Chuza

Chuza is a relatively minor but intriguing figure in the New Testament, mentioned only once in the Gospel of Luke. Despite the brevity of his appearance in the text, his mention provides insight into the social and political dimensions of Jesus’ ministry, particularly the presence of individuals connected to Herod Antipas’s court. Chuza is identified as the husband of Joanna, one of the women who followed Jesus and supported Him financially. His name suggests an individual of status and responsibility within Herod’s administration.

Chuza Pronunciation

“Chuza” is pronounced as KOO-zuh, with emphasis on the first syllable. The name is of Aramaic origin and may be rendered as Χουζᾶς (Chouzas) in Greek manuscripts.

Chuza in the New Testament

Chuza is mentioned in a single verse in the Gospel of Luke:

• Luke 8:3 – “Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their means.”

From this, we learn the following about Chuza:

• Chuza served as Herod's steward: The Greek term used, epitropos, can be translated as “manager” or “household administrator.” This indicates Chuza held a significant and trusted position in Herod Antipas’s household, overseeing finances, resources, or domestic affairs.
• Chuza's wife, Joanna, followed Jesus: Joanna was one of the women who had been healed by Jesus and subsequently became one of His devoted followers. She, along with other women, supported Jesus and the disciples “out of their substance,” indicating both financial contribution and personal devotion.

Historical and Political Context

Herod Antipas was the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, ruling under Roman authority during the ministry of Jesus. That a high-ranking official from Herod’s court would be indirectly connected to Jesus through his wife suggests the wide social impact of Jesus’ teachings. While there is no direct indication that Chuza himself was a follower of Jesus, his wife’s involvement shows that the Gospel reached even into elite and politically entangled households.

Related Themes and Meanings to Chuza

• God’s reach across social boundaries: Chuza’s connection to Herod’s court and Joanna’s participation in Jesus’ ministry demonstrate that the message of the kingdom of God transcended class and political affiliation.
• The role of women in Jesus’ ministry: Joanna, Chuza’s wife, was one of several women who played an essential, though often overlooked, role in supporting Jesus’ mission.
• Divine providence through unexpected channels: It’s significant that financial support for Jesus came not just from common folk but also from people connected to the royal court.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Chuza

• Chuza’s name, though only mentioned once, implies a high level of trust within Herod’s court—possibly making him a well-known figure in Galilee at the time.
• Some scholars speculate that Joanna, due to her position and connections, may have played a role in bringing news of Jesus’ resurrection to a broader audience (Luke 24:10 mentions her again).
• The mention of Chuza is another example of Luke’s interest in showing that Jesus’ influence extended into the higher echelons of society, a recurring theme throughout Luke and Acts.

Chuza’s Legacy in the Biblical Narrative

Though a background character, Chuza’s inclusion in the Gospel narrative opens a window into the wide societal reach of Jesus’ influence and the quiet but vital support He received. His wife Joanna’s ongoing presence in the ministry and even at the resurrection (Luke 24:10) suggests that Chuza, whether actively or passively, allowed or supported her involvement. The name of Chuza, therefore, remains a silent witness to the many unnamed or briefly named individuals whose lives intersected with the early Jesus movement and played essential roles behind the scenes.