Topical Encyclopedia The denarius was a silver coin used during the time of the New Testament, particularly in the Roman Empire. It is frequently mentioned in the Bible, providing insight into the economic and social context of the era. The denarius serves as a significant reference point for understanding the value of money and labor in biblical times.Historical Context The denarius was first minted in the late third century BC and became a standard Roman coin by the time of the New Testament. It was approximately equivalent to a day's wage for a laborer or soldier, making it a common measure for transactions and wages. The coin typically featured the image of the reigning emperor, symbolizing Roman authority and governance. Biblical References 1. Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard: In Matthew 20:1-16, Jesus tells the parable of the workers in the vineyard, where the landowner agrees to pay the laborers a denarius for a day's work. This parable highlights themes of generosity, fairness, and the kingdom of heaven. The denarius here represents the agreed-upon wage, emphasizing the landowner's right to dispense his wealth as he sees fit. “After agreeing with the workers on one denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard.” (Matthew 20:2) 2. Tribute to Caesar: In Matthew 22:15-22, the Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus asks for a denarius and inquires about the image and inscription on it, leading to His famous response: “So give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matthew 22:21) This passage underscores the distinction between earthly and divine obligations, using the denarius as a symbol of secular authority. 3. The Widow’s Offering: In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus observes a poor widow contributing two small coins, known as lepta, to the temple treasury. While not a denarius, the passage contrasts the widow's offering with the larger sums given by the wealthy, highlighting her sacrificial giving. The denarius serves as a backdrop for understanding the relative value of her contribution. 4. The Good Samaritan: In Luke 10:25-37, the parable of the Good Samaritan includes the Samaritan giving two denarii to the innkeeper to care for the injured man. This act of generosity illustrates the Samaritan's compassion and willingness to provide for the man's needs. “The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and on my return I will repay you for any additional expense.’” (Luke 10:35) Economic and Social Implications The denarius, as a day's wage, provides a benchmark for understanding the economic conditions of the time. It reflects the labor market, the cost of living, and the social dynamics between different classes. The use of the denarius in Jesus' teachings often serves to challenge prevailing social norms and to illustrate deeper spiritual truths. Conclusion The denarius is more than just a coin; it is a tool used by Jesus to convey profound lessons about the kingdom of God, justice, and human relationships. Its presence in the New Testament narratives offers a window into the economic realities of the time and serves as a powerful symbol in the teachings of Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Denarius.Greek 3414. mna -- a mina (Gr. monetary unit) ... See also 1220 ("denarius") and 1406 ("drachma"). One was equivalent to 100 denarii (= one hundred days' wages for the common worker). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3414.htm - 7k 5007. talanton -- a balance, hence that which is weighed, ie a ... 1220. denarion -- denarius (a Roman coin) Library On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xvii. 21, "How Oft Shall My ... "He is More Honored than Jupiter These Days," the Philosopher was ... It was the Fifth Anniversary of that Resolution of the Senate ... The Miraculous Feeding of the Five Thousand The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour (Nt Apocrypha) Against the Heresy of Artemon. Whether There is Mercy in God The Relatives of Our Saviour. Those who First Advanced the Heresy of Artemon; their Manner of ... Copy of an Imperial Epistle in which Money is Granted to the ... Thesaurus Denarii (7 Occurrences)...Denarii (7 Occurrences). ... Mark 14:5 For this might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii, and given to the poor." They grumbled against her. ... /d/denarii.htm - 8k Wages (52 Occurrences) Worth (36 Occurrences) Year's (8 Occurrences) Owed (10 Occurrences) Eight (81 Occurrences) Months (65 Occurrences) Buy (71 Occurrences) Sold (92 Occurrences) Spend (54 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Unforgiving / Unmerciful Servant? | GotQuestions.orgDenarii: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Denarii (7 Occurrences)Matthew 18:28 Mark 6:37 Mark 14:5 Luke 7:41 Luke 10:35 John 6:7 John 12:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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