Divine Currency: χρυσίον (Strong’s G5553: chrusion) – Heaven’s Standard of Value

Strong’s G5553: A diminutive of χρυσός (chrysos), χρυσίον refers to gold in its refined form, specifically gold coins or ornaments. Used metaphorically in Scripture to represent spiritual wealth, purity, and divine value. Derived from Proto-Indo-European *ghreu-, meaning “to shine, glitter.”

U- Unveiling the Word

χρυσίον represents more than mere precious metal in New Testament usage. As a diminutive form of χρυσός, it specifically denotes refined or worked gold, often in the form of coins or jewelry. This refinement aspect carries profound theological significance, particularly in contexts of spiritual testing and purification. The early church fathers frequently drew parallels between the refining process of gold and the purification of believers’ faith, as exemplified in 1 Peter 1:7. Today, this word continues to resonate as a powerful metaphor for spiritual value and the refining work of the Holy Spirit in believers’ lives.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: χρυσίον, chrusion, /khry-SEE-on/
• Detailed pronunciation: khrü-sē’-on (emphasis on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• χρυσ- (root) from χρυσός meaning “gold”
• -ίον (diminutive suffix) indicating “small pieces” or “refined form”

D – Defining Meanings

• Refined gold
• Gold coins
• Gold ornaments or jewelry
• Precious metal in worked form

For compound words: The diminutive suffix -ίον modifies the root χρυσ- to indicate smaller pieces or refined forms of gold, emphasizing its worked or processed nature.

Translation Options:

• “refined gold” – emphasizes the purified nature
• “gold pieces” – captures the diminutive aspect
• “golden ornaments” – reflects its worked form

E – Exploring Similar Words

• χρυσός (chrysos) /khrü-sos’/ – raw or unrefined gold – See G5557
• χρύσεος (chryseos) /khrü’-se-os/ – golden, made of gold – See G5552
• χρυσοδακτύλιος (chrysodaktylios) /khrü-so-dak-tü’-li-os/ – wearing gold rings – See G5554

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: 2nd

This neuter noun follows standard 2nd declension patterns:
Nominative/Accusative: χρυσίον
Genitive: χρυσίου
Dative: χρυσίῳ
Plural forms add appropriate endings to the stem χρυσι-

Cross-references:

• Adjective form: χρύσεος
• Verbal form: χρυσόω (to gild)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG defines χρυσίον primarily as refined or worked gold, distinguishing it from raw gold (χρυσός). Thayer’s emphasizes its diminutive nature and frequent use in reference to gold coins. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples, particularly in commercial contexts. Vine’s notes its metaphorical usage in spiritual contexts, especially regarding faith testing. Strong’s connects it to the concept of purity and value. Moulton and Milligan’s papyri evidence shows its common use in commercial transactions and dowry agreements. LEH correlates it with Septuagint usage, where it often represents temple treasures and offerings.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Then Peter said, Silver and [χρυσίον] gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” Acts 3:6

Additional References:
Acts 20:33, 1 Peter 1:7, 1 Peter 1:18, Revelation 3:18

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

χρυσίον’s significance extends beyond its material value, representing spiritual refinement and divine worth in Scripture. Its use in the New Testament often contrasts earthly and heavenly treasures, emphasizing the superior value of spiritual riches in God’s kingdom. This word powerfully proclaims the good news by highlighting how the Messiah refines His people like pure gold, transforming them through trials into vessels of honor for His glory. It reminds us that true wealth lies not in earthly possessions but in the eternal riches found in relationship with Him.

D – Did You Know?

• χρυσίον appears in ancient Greek marriage contracts as part of dowry listings
• The word’s diminutive form influenced Byzantine coinage terminology
• Early church baptismal fonts were sometimes called χρυσίον, symbolizing spiritual refinement

Strong’s G5553: A diminutive of χρυσός (chrysos), χρυσίον refers to gold in its refined form, specifically gold coins or ornaments. Used metaphorically in Scripture to represent spiritual wealth, purity, and divine value. Derived from Proto-Indo-European *ghreu-, meaning “to shine, glitter.”

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: gold, refinement, purity, value, wealth, treasure, currency, precious metal, spiritual transformation, divine worth​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​