G3414

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word μνᾶ (mna) holds special significance in Biblical studies, especially in its appearance in Luke 19:13. Understanding the context and meaning of μνᾶ is important for interpreting the parable of the ten minas, where Jesus uses this unit of currency to illustrate spiritual stewardship. Beyond the New Testament, the μνᾶ connects with the broader ancient economic systems of both Greek and Hebrew cultures, reflecting its dual significance in both daily commerce and spiritual lessons. Its relevance extends beyond its literal value, opening the door to metaphorical and theological insights.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: μνᾶ (mna)

Transliteration: mna

Pronunciation: /mnah/

Etymology: The word μνᾶ finds its origins in the Hebrew word מָנֶה (maneh), which refers to a standard unit of weight and currency. The term was adapted into Greek and used throughout the Hellenistic world, including the Roman Empire, making it a common term in New Testament times.

Part of Speech: Noun (feminine). The μνᾶ is a substantive noun that represents a unit of currency or weight. It functions primarily as a term in economic contexts but carries deeper metaphorical meanings, particularly in the parables of Jesus, where it represents responsibility, stewardship, and the value of spiritual gifts.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Unit of Currency: In its primary sense, μνᾶ refers to a unit of currency. In the Roman world, one μνᾶ was equivalent to approximately 100 drachmas or denarii, representing around three months’ wages for a laborer. This meaning is central to its use in Luke 19:13, where servants are entrusted with μνᾶs to invest.

2. Symbol of Stewardship: In parables like that in Luke 19, the μνᾶ takes on a symbolic meaning, representing the resources or talents that God entrusts to individuals. The way these resources are managed is tied to themes of faithfulness, accountability, and reward.

Exploring Similar Words

1. δηνάριον (dēnarion) [deh-na-ree-on]: A denarius, another unit of currency, typically representing a day’s wage. The μνᾶ, being much larger in value, emphasizes a more substantial responsibility in parables.

2. τάλαντον (talanton) [ta-lan-ton]: A talent, a much larger monetary unit than the μνᾶ. While both terms are used in parables, the talent represents an even greater level of responsibility.

3. χρῆμα (chrēma) [khreh-mah]: This general word for money is more abstract, whereas μνᾶ refers to a specific, measurable amount.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:

Μνᾶ follows the standard declension patterns of feminine nouns in Greek, though it remains indeclinable in most uses due to its transliteration from Hebrew.

Declension Table:

Case Singular

Nominative μνᾶ

Genitive μνᾶς

Dative μνᾷ

Accusative μνᾶν

For more information, click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s point out that μνᾶ is primarily understood as a unit of currency but also notes its role in various metaphorical and theological applications in the New Testament. In Luke 19:13, the parable of the minas uses the word to teach principles of stewardship, accountability, and divine reward. The lexicons also highlight that μνᾶ is related to the Hebrew מָנֶה (maneh), showing its continuity in both Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures. The usage of μνᾶ also underscores the connection between material wealth and spiritual responsibility in Biblical teachings.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 19:13 – “And he called ten of his servants, and delivered them ten pounds [μνᾶς], and said unto them, Occupy till I come.”

2. Luke 19:16 – “Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound [μνᾶ] hath gained ten pounds.”

3. Luke 19:24 – “And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound [μνᾶ], and give it to him that hath ten pounds.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Example Text

Herodotus Histories “They offered a golden μνᾶ as a tribute to the gods.”

Xenophon Anabasis “He was paid five μνᾶs for his services.”

Septuagint 1 Kings 10:17 “And he made shields of gold, each costing six hundred μνᾶs.”

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word μνᾶ (mna) plays a crucial role in both economic and theological contexts within the New Testament. It represents a significant unit of currency in ancient Greek and Roman societies, equivalent to about 100 drachmas or denarii, reflecting considerable value. In Luke 19, μνᾶ is used in the parable of the minas to illustrate stewardship, faithfulness, and the rewards for managing the resources God has given. Its Hebrew origins, material significance, and theological implications make it a key term for understanding both ancient economic systems and the spiritual lessons conveyed through Jesus’ teachings.

Did You Know?

1. One μνᾶ was worth approximately three months’ wages for a laborer, making it a substantial amount of money.

2. The μνᾶ is often considered equivalent to one-sixtieth of a talent, another significant Biblical unit of currency.

3. The parable of the minas, in which the μνᾶ appears, is often seen as a parallel to the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, though the amounts of money and specific lessons differ.