The term "didrachm" refers to a silver coin used in ancient times, particularly within the context of the Roman Empire and Hellenistic regions. The didrachm was equivalent to two drachmas, a standard unit of currency in Greek-speaking areas. In the context of the Bible, the didrachm is most notably associated with the temple tax, a levy required of Jewish males for the maintenance of the temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Context

The didrachm is specifically mentioned in the New Testament in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 17:24-27 , the narrative describes an encounter between Jesus and Peter regarding the payment of the temple tax:

"When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, 'Does your Teacher pay the two-drachma tax?' 'Yes,' he answered. When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. 'What do you think, Simon?' He asked. 'From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own sons or from others?' 'From others,' Peter answered. 'Then the sons are exempt,' Jesus declared. 'But so that we may not offend them, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish you catch. When you open its mouth, you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for My tax and yours.'"

This passage highlights several key themes: the acknowledgment of civic and religious duties, the divine provision for those duties, and the unique status of Jesus as the Son of God, exempt from earthly obligations yet choosing to fulfill them to avoid causing offense.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The didrachm, as a coin, was part of the broader economic system of the ancient Mediterranean world. Its use in the temple tax underscores the integration of Jewish religious practices with the prevailing economic structures of the time. The temple tax itself was rooted in the Mosaic Law, specifically in Exodus 30:13-16, where a half-shekel (equivalent to a didrachm) was required as a ransom for each male Israelite over the age of twenty.

The payment of the temple tax was a significant religious duty, symbolizing the individual's contribution to the communal worship and maintenance of the temple, which was the center of Jewish religious life. The didrachm, therefore, was not merely a coin but a representation of one's participation in the covenant community of Israel.

Theological Implications

The account in Matthew 17:24-27 offers profound theological insights. Jesus' discussion with Peter about the tax reflects His understanding of His divine sonship and the new covenant He was establishing. By instructing Peter to find the coin in the fish's mouth, Jesus demonstrates His sovereignty over creation and His ability to provide for His followers' needs.

Moreover, Jesus' willingness to pay the tax, despite His exemption, exemplifies His humility and His commitment to living a life that was above reproach. This act prefigures His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He would fulfill the law and pay the ultimate price for humanity's redemption.

In summary, the didrachm in the biblical narrative serves as a focal point for understanding Jesus' relationship to the law, His divine authority, and His role as the provider and redeemer.

Letter Lvii. St. Ambrose Informs the Emperor Eugenius Why He was ...
... wicked King of Antioch had come to witness it, Jason appointed officers of sacred
rites, who were Antiochians, to carry three hundred didrachms of silver from ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/letter lvii st ambrose informs.htm

Didrachms (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Didrachms (1 Occurrence). Matthew 17:24 And they
having come to Capernaum, those receiving the didrachms...
/d/didrachms.htm - 6k

Yes (511 Occurrences)
... Matthew 17:24 And they having come to Capernaum, those receiving the didrachms came
near to Peter, and said, 'Your teacher -- doth he not pay the didrachms...
/y/yes.htm - 36k

Receiving (72 Occurrences)
... Matthew 17:24 And they having come to Capernaum, those receiving the didrachms came
near to Peter, and said, 'Your teacher -- doth he not pay the didrachms...
/r/receiving.htm - 28k

Caper'na-um (16 Occurrences)
... Matthew 17:24 And they having come to Capernaum, those receiving the didrachms came
near to Peter, and said, 'Your teacher -- doth he not pay the didrachms...
/c/caper'na-um.htm - 10k

Didrachmas (1 Occurrence)

/d/didrachmas.htm - 6k

Didst (1268 Occurrences)

/d/didst.htm - 6k

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