Brief Overview of γλωσσόκομον (G1101: glōssokomon)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γλωσσόκομον (transliterated as glōssokomon and pronounced as “glos-so-ko-mon”) refers to a container, often translated as “money box” or “purse.” The term combines γλῶσσα (glōssa), meaning “tongue” or “language,” with κομέω (komeō), meaning “to care for” or “to carry.” Originally, the word may have referred to a case for storing reeds or instruments related to music or language, but it came to be used primarily as a container for money or valuables.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and Strong’s Concordance, γλωσσόκομον is defined as a box or chest for keeping money. BDAG explains that this term is closely associated with the role of treasurer or custodian, particularly in the context of the New Testament. Thayer’s Lexicon elaborates that it was often used to describe the money box carried by someone in charge of finances, which in the New Testament refers specifically to Judas Iscariot, who held the disciples’ communal funds.

The term γλωσσόκομον appears in the New Testament in John 12:6 and John 13:29, where it is used to describe the money box that Judas Iscariot was responsible for. These verses highlight Judas’s role as the keeper of the disciples’ finances and provide insight into his character, as in John 12:6, it is mentioned that Judas would steal from the money box. The use of γλωσσόκομον in these passages underscores the trust placed in Judas, as well as his betrayal of that trust.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
The term γλωσσόκομον is not widely attested in classical Greek literature outside the New Testament. However, it may be related to the concept of a chest or box used for storing valuable items or instruments. In earlier Greek writings, the root γλῶσσα often refers to the tongue or language, which suggests that the original purpose of such a box might have been related to the storage of musical instruments or writing materials. Over time, the meaning shifted to focus more on the storage of money or valuables, reflecting the usage seen in the New Testament.

Summary:
The word γλωσσόκομον (G1101), transliterated as glōssokomon, refers to a container used for storing money or valuables, often translated as “money box” or “purse.” The term originates from the Greek words for “tongue” or “language” and “to care for,” possibly indicating an early use related to musical instruments or writing materials. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s identify its New Testament usage specifically with Judas Iscariot, who was responsible for the disciples’ communal funds. The term is significant in understanding Judas’s role and the trust he was given, as well as his betrayal. While the word is not widely found in classical Greek literature, its usage in the New Testament offers a clear example of how language evolves over time, shifting from a more general to a more specialized meaning.