Publius

Publius was described as "the chief man of the island" (Greek protos) of Malta (Melita), who hospitably received Paul and his shipwrecked companions for three days after their storm-driven landfall (Acts 28:7). When Publius's father fell ill with fever and dysentery, Paul went in and prayed and laid hands on him, healing him. This healing led many others on the island to come and be cured of their diseases (Acts 28:9). The title protos has been confirmed by Maltese inscriptions as an actual official designation. Paul and his companions remained on Malta for three months before continuing to Rome.