G2835
Unveiling the Word
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Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for uncovering the depth and nuance of the New Testament. The Greek word κοδράντης (kodrantēs), which appears in Matthew 5:26, is particularly significant for its cultural and economic connotations in the ancient world. As a term used for a small Roman coin, it provides insight into the monetary system and the socio-economic context of the time. Knowing the exact value and use of the κοδράντης helps in understanding various New Testament teachings, especially those related to money, debt, and obligations.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: κοδράντης, transliterated as kodrantēs [koh-DRAN-tace].
Etymology: The word κοδράντης is derived from the Latin word quadrans, meaning “a quarter.” It refers to a Roman copper or bronze coin that was one-fourth of an as, another Roman coin. The term’s origin reflects its Roman roots, highlighting the influence of Roman currency in the ancient Near East.
Part of Speech: Noun, masculine. As a noun, it falls under the category of proper nouns when used to refer to a specific denomination of currency. It does not undergo declension changes as a proper noun but follows the standard rules for Greek masculine nouns.
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Defining Meanings
- Quarter of an As: The primary meaning of κοδράντης is a Roman copper or bronze coin valued at a quarter of an as. This coin had a relatively low value, which makes it significant in Biblical passages discussing small amounts of money or trivial debts.
- Symbol of Insignificance: In many New Testament contexts, the κοδράντης symbolizes a negligible amount of money, emphasizing the teaching that even the smallest obligations must be fulfilled, as seen in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:26).
Exploring Similar Words
- ἀσσάριον (assarion) [ah-sah-REE-on]: Another Roman coin mentioned in the New Testament, roughly equivalent to one-sixteenth of a denarius. It is of slightly higher value than a κοδράντης and often used to illustrate minor transactions or small monetary values in parables.
- δηνάριον (dēnarion) [day-NAH-ree-on]: A silver coin worth much more than a κοδράντης, commonly referenced in parables discussing wages, such as the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. It helps provide context for understanding different economic values in ancient Judea.
- λεπτόν (lepton) [LEP-ton]: The smallest Greek copper coin, worth even less than a κοδράντης. Known for being the “widow’s mite,” it illustrates extreme poverty and the value of sacrificial giving in Luke 21:2.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Case, Number, Gender:
κοδράντης is a masculine noun and follows the second declension pattern. It is typically used in the singular form when referring to the coin itself.
Declension:
| Case | Singular |
|---|---|
| Nominative | κοδράντης |
| Genitive | κοδράντου |
| Dative | κοδράντῃ |
| Accusative | κοδράντην |
| Vocative | κοδράντη |
For a deeper dive into Greek noun declensions, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Studying Lexicon Insights
The term κοδράντης is referenced in various Greek lexicons as a minor Roman coin of minimal value. It is often associated with lessons on debt, fulfillment of obligations, and the value of seemingly insignificant things in a spiritual context. The word helps provide a clearer picture of the socio-economic backdrop of the New Testament, where even the smallest coin has a role in conveying spiritual truths. In both New Testament and classical contexts, it symbolizes something of little material worth but potential moral significance. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
- Matthew 5:26: “Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny [κοδράντης].”
Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and fulfilling obligations, even down to the last penny, symbolized by the κοδράντης.
Analyzing Classical Usage
The usage of κοδράντης in classical Greek literature is minimal due to its Latin origin. However, its appearance in Hellenistic Greek texts is more prominent, reflecting the Roman influence on the Mediterranean economy. Below is a table with examples from later texts that reflect this influence.
| Author | Name of Work | Text Excerpt |
|---|---|---|
| Polybius | Histories | “A soldier’s pay might consist of a few quadrantes [κοδράντης] for his day’s labor.” |
| Plutarch | Moralia | “He who gives a quadrans [κοδράντης] begrudges the gift, though it be a pittance.” |
| Septuagint | Tobit | “He had not even a quadrans [κοδράντης] to offer for his sustenance.” |
Noteworthy Summary
The word κοδράντης is a significant term in the New Testament that reveals both economic and spiritual insights. As a small Roman coin, it helps to illustrate teachings about the importance of fulfilling even the smallest obligations. Its usage demonstrates how minor details can carry significant moral and ethical weight in biblical teachings. Understanding this word deepens our appreciation of the socio-economic conditions of the early Christian era and the teachings of Jesus.
Did You Know?
- The κοδράντης was worth about one-sixty-fourth of a denarius, the daily wage for a laborer in Roman times.
- The κοδράντης is equivalent to the modern “penny” in some translations of the Bible, emphasizing its minimal value.
- The use of κοδράντης in Jesus’ teachings highlights how even the smallest amounts matter in spiritual accountability and ethical living.