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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it reveals the nuances and cultural contexts behind scriptural texts. The Greek word κῆνσος (kēnsos) is particularly significant as it appears in discussions related to taxation and governance in the New Testament. This word’s usage provides essential insight into the socio-political landscape of the Roman Empire during the time of Jesus. Found in Matthew 17:25, κῆνσος holds importance for understanding the relationship between early Christian teachings and Roman authority, especially in how Jesus and his disciples navigated issues of state and religion.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κῆνσος, transliterated as kēnsos [KANE-sos].

Etymology: The word κῆνσος is derived from the Latin census, which refers to the Roman practice of conducting a census for tax purposes. It is directly tied to Roman administrative procedures, underscoring its Latin origin and adoption into the Greek language to express similar concepts in the context of taxation and state control.

Part of Speech: κῆνσος is a masculine noun. In Greek, it follows the declension pattern typical for masculine nouns, with variations for case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and number (singular, plural).

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

Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κῆνσος is “tax” or “tribute.” Specifically, it refers to a tax levied by the Roman government, which was obligatory for all inhabitants of the Empire. In this sense, it carries connotations of state authority and the subjection of people to the ruling power.

Another meaning of κῆνσος is “census tax,” a more specific type of levy collected based on a population count. This is evident in contexts where individuals were counted for the purpose of taxation, reflecting a broader administrative function beyond mere financial demand.

In some contexts, κῆνσος can imply a “tribute payment,” particularly in scenarios where subjugated peoples were required to demonstrate their allegiance to the Empire through regular financial contributions.

Exploring Similar Words

The Greek word φόρος (phoros) [FOH-ros] refers to a general “tax” or “tribute,” but it is broader in meaning than κῆνσος. While κῆνσος is specifically tied to the Roman census tax, φόρος can refer to any type of tax or tribute, often applied in local or civic contexts.

Another related term is δασμός (dasmós) [das-MOS], meaning “duty” or “toll.” This word refers more to import and export duties or local tariffs and is not specifically tied to the Roman taxation system like κῆνσος.

The word τέλος (telos) [TEH-los] is also related and means “tax” or “customs duty.” It differs in its application, referring more to specific transactional taxes rather than a broader census tax.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κῆνσος is a masculine noun that follows the second declension pattern in Greek. Its cases vary as follows:

Declension: As illustrated, κῆνσος follows the second declension pattern for masculine nouns in Greek.

For a deeper understanding of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term κῆνσος has been studied across various Greek lexicons, highlighting its significance in both New Testament and historical contexts. In the New Testament, it specifically refers to the tax imposed by Roman authorities, which is evident in passages like Matthew 17:25, where Jesus discusses the payment of the temple tax. The word is closely tied to the political dynamics between the Jewish population and the Roman government. In classical contexts, κῆνσος maintains a similar meaning, often related to the obligations of citizenship under Roman rule. The theological implications are also evident, as the word is used to discuss the relationship between spiritual obligations and secular governance.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 17:25: “He said, ‘Yes.’ And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute [κῆνσον]? From their sons or from others?'”

Matthew 22:19: “Show me the coin for the tax [κῆνσον]. And they brought him a denarius.”

Mark 12:14: “Is it lawful to pay taxes [κῆνσον] to Caesar, or not?”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek noun κῆνσος (kēnsos) is pivotal in understanding the socio-political and economic climate of the New Testament era. It directly connects the Biblical text to the Roman Empire’s administrative practices and the Jewish community’s struggles under Roman taxation. By exploring its meanings, morphology, and occurrences, both beginners and scholars can appreciate its multifaceted role in shaping early Christian perspectives on state authority and spiritual commitments.

Did You Know?

The word κῆνσος is derived from Latin, showing the influence of Roman rule over Greek-speaking regions.

In Roman times, a “census” involved not just counting people but assessing their property to determine the amount of tax due.

The debate over paying the κῆνσος to Caesar in the New Testament reflects broader Jewish resistance to Roman occupation and the financial burdens it imposed.