Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Apostle Paul: A major figure in early Christianity, originally named Saul, who became a missionary to non-Jewish communities after a conversion experience. He is credited with authoring several epistles (letters) in the New Testament and is considered an Apostle, despite not being one of the original Twelve.
   • Saint Paul: The capital city of the U.S. state of Minnesota, situated on the Mississippi River. It forms the "Twin Cities" metropolitan area with its neighboring city, Minneapolis.

Usage Examples

• Apostle/Saint Paul:

  • The teachings of St. Paul were instrumental in the spread of Christianity.
  • Many of the New Testament letters are attributed to St. Paul.

• City of Saint Paul:

  • St. Paul is known for its historic architecture and cultural institutions.
  • The state capitol building is located in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Advanced Usage

• Pauline: (Adjective) Relating to or characteristic of the Apostle Paul or his writings.
  • The scholar specialized in Pauline theology.

Variants and Related Words

• Paul: The more common short form for both the saint and the city (e.g., the Letters of Paul; downtown Paul).
• Saul: The original Hebrew name of the Apostle Paul before his conversion.
• Twin Cities: The metropolitan area comprising Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Synonyms

• Apostle Paul: Paul the Apostle, Saul of Tarsus.
• City: The Capital City (of Minnesota).

Notes on Meaning

This entry covers two distinct primary meanings: a historical religious figure and a geographic location. The context of a sentence will always clarify which meaning is intended. In religious contexts, "St. Paul" almost exclusively refers to the apostle. In discussions of U.S. geography or government, it refers to the city.

Noun

1. (New Testament) a Christian missionary to the Gentiles; author of several Epistles in the New Testament; even though Paul was not present at the Last Supper he is considered an Apostle
   • Paul's name was Saul prior to his conversion to Christianity
2. capital of the state of Minnesota; located in southeastern Minnesota on the Mississippi river adjacent to Minneapolis; one of the Twin Cities