Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words like λίτρα (litra) is crucial for Biblical studies because it provides context and depth to the text. λίτρα appears in John 12:3, describing the weight of the costly ointment that Mary used to anoint Jesus’ feet. The term’s usage helps readers understand the value and significance of the act. Furthermore, understanding such terms deepens our appreciation of the economic and cultural background of the New Testament period, shedding light on the daily lives, practices, and priorities of the people in ancient Judea and the broader Greco-Roman world.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: λίτρα (litra) [pronunciation: LEE-trah].

Etymology: The word λίτρα is derived from Latin, specifically from the word libra, which was a Roman unit of weight. The original term referred to a Roman pound, roughly equivalent to 327 grams or 11.5 ounces. This Latin origin highlights the cultural exchange and linguistic borrowing that took place in the Mediterranean world, where Roman and Greek cultures intertwined.

Part of Speech: Noun. λίτρα is a feminine noun. In biblical usage, it typically appears in the singular form, describing a specific quantity of weight, such as in John 12:3, where it denotes a Roman pound of ointment.

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

Defining Meanings

1. A Roman Pound: The primary meaning of λίτρα in the New Testament and other ancient texts is a measure of weight. As a Roman pound, it was commonly used to weigh spices, perfumes, and other valuable goods, particularly in trade and commerce.
2. Measure for Valuables: Given its association with valuable items like ointments, the term often conveys the sense of something precious or costly, emphasizing the significant amount of something being measured.

Exploring Similar Words

1. μινα (mina) [pronunciation: MEE-nah]: Another weight measure used in ancient times, but the mina was heavier than the litra, typically equivalent to about 0.6 kilograms or 1.25 pounds.
2. ταλαντον (talanton) [pronunciation: tah-LAHN-ton]: A much larger unit of weight, often translated as “talent,” which was about 75 pounds. Unlike λίτρα, which is used for smaller, more precise measures, ταλαντον often signifies an exceedingly large amount.
3. δραχμή (drachmē) [pronunciation: drahk-MAY]: Refers to a Greek silver coin and weight, roughly equivalent to a handful of silver. While δραχμή is a monetary term, λίτρα focuses more on weight rather than value.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:
λίτρα is a feminine noun and follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word λίτρα appears in the New Testament specifically to convey the weight of valuable substances, such as the ointment used by Mary to anoint Jesus. In the cultural context of the New Testament, the word emphasizes the significant amount and cost of the materials being described. This is further highlighted by its Latin origin, showing the blending of Roman and Jewish cultures in the era. In classical Greek usage, λίτρα retained this sense of weight and was commonly used in market transactions. In theological discussions, it may underscore themes of generosity, sacrifice, and value, especially in contexts that highlight costly offerings or gifts.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• John 12:3 – “Then took Mary a pound [λίτρα] of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.”
• John 19:39 – “And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound [λίτραι] weight.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λίτρα (litra) is a noun meaning “pound” and is primarily used to describe weight, especially in the context of valuable items like ointments and perfumes in the New Testament. Its use in passages like John 12:3 and John 19:39 highlights the cultural and economic significance of these items and reflects the practices of both Jewish and Roman societies. Understanding λίτρα provides insight into the socio-economic context of the early Christian era and how valuable offerings played a role in expressing devotion and honor.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: The term λίτρα is directly borrowed from Latin, reflecting the influence of Roman culture on the Greek-speaking world of the New Testament.
• Fact 2: In ancient Rome, a libra (the Latin equivalent of λίτρα) was also used as a standard unit for weighing currency, making it an important term for trade and commerce.
• Fact 3: The mention of λίτρα in John 12:3 is one of the most vivid depictions of generosity and devotion in the Gospels, where the act of anointing Jesus’ feet symbolizes both honor and sacrifice.