Choenixes
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The term "choenix" (Greek: χοῖνιξ, transliterated as "choenix") refers to an ancient Greek unit of dry measure, approximately equivalent to one quart or about 1.1 liters. This measure is mentioned in the context of the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 6:6, which is the only occurrence of the term in the Bible. The passage reads: "Then I heard what sounded like a voice among the four living creatures, saying, 'A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and wine.'" .

Context in Revelation

The mention of a choenix in Revelation 6:6 occurs during the opening of the third seal by the Lamb, which is part of the apocalyptic vision given to the Apostle John. This vision includes the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, with the third horseman riding a black horse and holding a pair of scales in his hand. The voice that John hears speaks of a choenix of wheat being sold for a denarius, which was a day's wage for a laborer at the time, indicating a period of severe scarcity and economic hardship.

Symbolism and Interpretation

In the context of Revelation, the choenix symbolizes a time of famine and economic distress. The high price of a choenix of wheat or three choenixes of barley for a denarius suggests inflation and scarcity, where basic foodstuffs become precious commodities. The instruction not to harm the oil and wine may imply that while staple foods are scarce, luxury items remain unaffected, highlighting a disparity in the availability of resources.

From a theological perspective, this passage is often interpreted as a warning of the trials and tribulations that will precede the end times. The scarcity represented by the choenix serves as a reminder of the fragility of human economies and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all creation. It underscores the need for faith and reliance on divine provision during times of crisis.

Historical and Cultural Background

In the ancient world, the choenix was a common measure for grains and other dry goods. It was a practical unit for daily sustenance, as a choenix of wheat was considered sufficient to feed one person for a day. The use of this measure in Revelation would have been immediately understood by John's original audience, who were familiar with the economic realities of the Roman Empire, including the frequent occurrence of famines and the impact of such events on daily life.

Relevance for Today

The mention of choenixes in Revelation continues to resonate with readers as a symbol of economic instability and the challenges that can arise in times of scarcity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of stewardship, preparedness, and trust in God's provision. For believers, the passage encourages a focus on spiritual wealth and the assurance of God's ultimate plan, even amidst earthly trials.
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The First vision "On Earth"
... in his hand.6. And I heard as [164] it were a voice in the midst of the four Zoa,
saying, "A choenix of wheat for a denarius, and three choenixes of barley for ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the first vision on earth.htm

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Choenixes (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Choenixes (1 Occurrence). Revelation 6:6 And I
heard as a voice in the midst of the four living creatures ...
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Choenix (1 Occurrence)

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Choice (113 Occurrences)

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Concordance
Choenixes (1 Occurrence)

Revelation 6:6
And I heard as a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, A choenix of wheat for a denarius, and three choenixes of barley for a denarius: and do not injure the oil and the wine.
(DBY)

Subtopics

Choenixes

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Choenix
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