Brief Overview of δραχμή (G1406: drachmḗ)

Introduction

Understanding the meanings and nuances of Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and grasping the cultural context of ancient Greek society. One such word is δραχμή (drachmḗ), which holds both economic and cultural significance in the ancient world. This word is particularly relevant when studying the New Testament, as it appears in Jesus’ parables and discussions, offering insight into the everyday life and economic practices of the time. Furthermore, δραχμή provides a window into ancient Greek culture, where currency played a pivotal role in trade, wealth, and societal structures.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: δραχμή (drachmḗ) [drahk-MAY]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb δράσσομαι (drássomai), meaning “to grasp,” reflecting the action of holding or seizing something, which in this context is money.
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine (first declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• A drachma: The primary meaning of δραχμή is a unit of currency, the drachma, which was a standard silver coin used in ancient Greece.
• A sum of money: By extension, δραχμή can also refer to any sum of money, particularly in a broader, non-specific sense.

When comparing δραχμή to related Greek words, such as νόμισμα (nómisma), which also means “coin” or “currency,” we observe that δραχμή specifically refers to a particular denomination, whereas νόμισμα is more general, indicating any form of legal currency. The use of δραχμή is more precise and often tied to specific historical and economic contexts.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: As a noun in the first declension, δραχμή follows the typical pattern of feminine nouns in ancient Greek, with its genitive singular form being δραχμῆς.
• Linguistic Features: The word’s origin from the verb δράσσομαι highlights the physicality of currency in ancient times—money was something to be grasped, held, and used in transactions. This etymology reflects the tangible nature of wealth in ancient Greece.
• Declension Chart:

Lexicon Insights:

• BDAG: BDAG emphasizes the use of δραχμή as a standard unit of currency in ancient Greece, noting its equivalence to a day’s wages for a skilled worker during the classical period.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s lexicon highlights the cultural importance of the drachma, not just as currency but as a symbol of economic stability and personal wealth in ancient Greek society.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s provides context for the usage of δραχμή in the New Testament, especially in Jesus’ parables, where it represents something of significant value, easily relatable to the audience of the time.

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Scripture References:

• Luke 15:8-9: The parable of the lost coin, where a woman searches for one of her ten drachmas, highlighting the value and importance of even a single coin.

Classical Usage:

δραχμή was a widely recognized term in ancient Greek literature, often appearing in discussions of wealth, trade, and economic exchange.

• Herodotus, Histories 3.89: “The gift was worth a thousand drachmas (δραχμήν) in silver.”
• Aristophanes, Plutus 1.20: “He who has many drachmas (δραχμαί) is esteemed by all.”
• Xenophon, Anabasis 1.3.15: “The pay for a soldier was one drachma (δραχμή) per day.”

These examples demonstrate the widespread use of the drachma as a unit of currency, with its value recognized throughout the Greek-speaking world.

Summary of δραχμή (G1406: drachmḗ)

The Greek noun δραχμή (drachmḗ) is essential for understanding the economic landscape of the ancient Greek world and the New Testament. As a term for currency, it reflects not only the literal exchange of goods and services but also the broader cultural importance of wealth, trade, and economic stability. Its appearances in both biblical and classical texts underscore its significance in everyday life and its symbolic value in literature and parables.

Did You Know?

The drachma, represented by the word δραχμή, was one of the world’s earliest coins, introduced around the 6th century BC. It remained in use in various forms throughout Greek history and was even reintroduced as Greece’s currency in modern times until the adoption of the Euro.