Lexical Summary pinakidion: Little tablet, small writing tablet Original Word: πινακίδιον Strong's Exhaustive Concordance writing tablet. Diminutive of pinax; a tablet (for writing on) -- writing table. see GREEK pinax NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origindim. of pinax Definition a writing tablet NASB Translation tablet (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4093: πινακίδιονπινακίδιον, πινακιδιου, τό (diminutive of πινακίς, πινακιδος) (Aristotle, others); a. a small tablet. b. specifically, a writing-tablet: Luke 1:63 (Tr marginal reading πινακιδα; see the following word); Epictetus diss. 3, 22, 74. STRONGS NT 4093: πινακίς [πινακίς, πινικιδος, ἡ, equivalent to πινακίδιον (which see): Luke 1:63 Tr marginal reading (Epictetus, Plutarch, Artemidorus Daldianus, others.) The term pinakidion denotes a portable writing tablet, typically constructed of wood and coated with wax. Such tablets were common in the Greco-Roman world for taking notes, drafting letters, keeping accounts, or recording legal transactions. Unlike papyrus scrolls that required ink, a waxed tablet allowed words to be inscribed with a stylus and erased for reuse, making it ideal for quick, private communication. Biblical Context and Usage Luke 1:63 contains the sole New Testament occurrence: “He asked for a tablet and wrote, ‘His name is John.’ And they were all amazed” (Berean Standard Bible). Here the tablet serves as the medium by which Zechariah breaks nine months of divinely imposed silence (Luke 1:20). His written declaration concludes the angelic promise and confirms the child’s divinely appointed name. Historical Significance 1. Everyday Object, Extraordinary Moment Wax tablets were ordinary tools; finding one in a Judean household does not surprise the historian. Yet Luke transforms an everyday item into a stage on which redemptive history moves forward. By using the tablet, Zechariah attests to the authenticity of Gabriel’s earlier message and demonstrates obedient faith. Ordinary implements become instruments in God’s unfolding plan. 2. Witness to Literacy in First-Century Judea The episode reveals literacy among priestly families and suggests the presence of writing materials even in small towns of the hill country of Judah (Luke 1:39-40). Luke’s detail provides historical insight into the educational environment surrounding the birth of John the Baptist. 3. Continuity with Earlier Revelation The action recalls other moments when God’s word is written down to ensure accuracy and permanence—Moses inscribing the covenant on stone (Exodus 24:12), Isaiah instructed to record a prophecy on a scroll (Isaiah 30:8), and Habakkuk told, “Write down the vision and make it plain on tablets” (Habakkuk 2:2). Zechariah’s tablet links the prophetic tradition of written testimony to the inauguration of the New Covenant era. Theological Significance in Luke 1:63 1. Confession of Faith Writing “His name is John” constitutes Zechariah’s public assent to God’s revelation. The tablet becomes a confessional document, aligning the priest with the divine plan and immediately restoring his speech (Luke 1:64). Faith expressed in written form leads to renewed fellowship and praise. 2. Authority of Divine Naming Throughout Scripture, naming signifies authority and mission (Genesis 17:5; Matthew 1:21). By inscribing the angel-given name, Zechariah acknowledges God’s sovereign prerogative over his son’s identity and destiny. The tablet thus testifies to God’s right to define His servants. 3. Catalyst for Corporate Awe “They were all amazed.” The written word on the tablet sparks communal reflection on God’s activity. A simple inscription becomes a sign that stirs reverent fear and expectation, preparing the community for John’s future ministry. Applications for Ministry and Discipleship • Written testimonies remain powerful. Journals, letters, and digital messages can affirm God’s work, encourage obedience, and bear witness to faith just as Zechariah’s tablet did. Related Biblical References Exodus 24:12; Deuteronomy 27:2-3; Isaiah 30:8; Habakkuk 2:2; Luke 1:20, 57-66; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 10:16. |
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