Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "penny" is often used to translate the Greek word "denarius," a silver coin that was commonly used in the Roman Empire. The denarius was the standard daily wage for a laborer or soldier, making it a significant unit of currency in the economic life of the New Testament period.Historical Context The denarius originated during the Roman Republic and continued to be used throughout the Roman Empire. It was first minted around 211 BC and became a staple in Roman currency. By the time of the New Testament, the denarius was well-established as a key coin in daily transactions. It typically featured the image of the reigning emperor, serving not only as currency but also as a tool of political propaganda. Biblical References The denarius is mentioned several times in the New Testament, often in the context of parables and teachings of Jesus. One of the most notable references is found in the parable of the workers in the vineyard: · “When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’ The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius.” (Matthew 20:8-9) This parable illustrates the generosity of God’s grace, as all workers receive the same wage regardless of the hours worked, symbolizing the equal gift of salvation. Another significant mention is in the account of Jesus being questioned about paying taxes to Caesar: · “Show Me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought Him a denarius. “Whose image is this,” He asked, “and whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they answered. So Jesus told them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matthew 22:19-21) Here, the denarius serves as a teaching tool for Jesus to convey the principle of fulfilling civic duties while maintaining spiritual devotion to God. Economic Implications The denarius, as a day's wage, provides insight into the economic conditions of the time. It reflects the value of labor and the cost of living in the Roman world. Understanding the denarius helps modern readers grasp the economic realities faced by the people in the biblical narratives, such as the widow who gave two small coins, known as mites, which were worth a fraction of a denarius. Theological Significance The use of the denarius in Jesus' teachings often underscores themes of justice, fairness, and the kingdom of God. It serves as a tangible representation of the broader spiritual truths Jesus sought to impart. The denarius, therefore, is not merely a coin but a symbol of the values and priorities of the kingdom of heaven, challenging believers to consider their own attitudes toward wealth, work, and divine grace. In summary, the denarius, or penny, is a small yet significant element in the New Testament, providing a window into the economic, social, and spiritual life of the time. Through its use in parables and teachings, it continues to offer valuable lessons for contemporary believers. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 18:1At the same time came the disciples to Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Nave's Topical Index Matthew 28:1 Mark 6:37 Mark 14:5 Luke 7:41 Luke 10:35 Greek 1220. denarion -- denarius (a Roman coin) ... denarius, pence, penny. Of Latin origin; a denarius (or ten asses) -- pence, penny(-worth). (denaria) -- 3 Occurrences. (denarion) -- 5 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1220.htm - 6k Library The Labourers in the vineyard. The Five Thousand Fed. Anointed for Burial. John Chapter iv. 18-Jan The vineyard Labourers. St. Ambrose Shows by Instances that the Places in which those ... Ittai of Gath Palestine Eighteen Centuries Ago My Brother Fabius Resources What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean when it says a thousand years are a day? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.org What are the 95 Theses of Martin Luther? | GotQuestions.org Penny: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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