Topical Encyclopedia The term "Didrachmon" refers to a specific type of coin used during the time of the New Testament, particularly in the context of the Roman Empire and Jewish society. The didrachmon, or double drachma, was a silver coin equivalent to two drachmas. It is significant in biblical studies primarily due to its mention in the context of the temple tax.Biblical Context The didrachmon is most notably referenced in the Gospel of Matthew, where it is associated with the temple tax. 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.'" In this passage, the "two-drachma tax" refers to the didrachmon, which was the amount required for the temple tax, a levy imposed on Jewish males for the maintenance of the temple in Jerusalem. The tax was based on the precedent set in Exodus 30:13, where each male over the age of twenty was required to contribute a half-shekel for the service of the tabernacle. Historical and Cultural Significance The didrachmon was a common coin in the Hellenistic world and was widely circulated in the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire. Its use in the temple tax highlights the intersection of Jewish religious practices and the broader economic systems of the time. The payment of the temple tax was both a religious duty and a civic obligation, reflecting the dual nature of Jewish identity under Roman rule. The narrative in Matthew underscores Jesus' awareness of social and religious obligations while also emphasizing His unique identity and mission. By instructing Peter to find a four-drachma coin in the mouth of a fish, Jesus not only provides for the tax but also demonstrates His divine authority and provision. Theological Implications The account of the didrachmon in Matthew 17 offers rich theological insights. It illustrates Jesus' respect for established religious practices, even as He points to a new understanding of sonship and freedom in the kingdom of God. The conversation between Jesus and Peter reveals a deeper truth about the nature of Jesus' mission and the relationship between the divine and the earthly. Furthermore, the miraculous provision of the coin serves as a testament to Jesus' sovereignty over creation and His ability to meet the needs of His followers. It also subtly foreshadows the ultimate provision of redemption through His death and resurrection, which would fulfill and transcend the requirements of the law. In summary, the didrachmon, while a small coin, carries significant weight in biblical narrative and theology, offering insights into the life and teachings of Jesus, the socio-religious context of His time, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Smith's Bible Dictionary DidrachmonGreek 1323. didrachmon -- a double drachma ... 1322, 1323. didrachmon. 1324 . ... see GREEK dis. see GREEK drachme. (didrachma) -- 2 Occurrences. 1322, 1323. didrachmon. 1324 . Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1323.htm - 6k Library Index ii. The Septuagint as a Version. Chapter i. Resources Didrachma: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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