Topical Encyclopedia The term "drachm" refers to an ancient Greek silver coin and unit of weight, which is mentioned in the context of the New Testament. The drachm was a common currency in the Hellenistic world and was widely used during the time of Jesus and the early church. It is important to understand the drachm in both its economic and cultural contexts to fully appreciate its significance in biblical narratives.Historical and Economic Context The drachm was originally a Greek coin, and its name is derived from the Greek word "drássomai," meaning "to grasp." It was approximately equivalent to the Roman denarius, which was the standard daily wage for a laborer during the New Testament period. The drachm's value and weight varied over time and location, but it typically contained about 4.3 grams of silver. In the New Testament, the drachm is often associated with the parable of the lost coin, found in Luke 15:8-10. In this parable, Jesus tells the account of a woman who loses one of her ten silver coins, likely drachms, and diligently searches her house until she finds it. The parable illustrates the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, emphasizing the value of each individual soul. Biblical References The Berean Standard Bible translates the Greek word "drachma" as "silver coin" in the parable of the lost coin: "Or what woman who has ten silver coins and loses one of them does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:8-10) This passage highlights the cultural and economic importance of the drachm, as losing even one coin was significant enough to warrant a thorough search and a celebration upon its recovery. Cultural Significance The drachm's role in the parable underscores the economic realities of the time, where even small amounts of money were crucial for daily living. The woman's possession of ten drachms suggests she was of modest means, and the loss of one coin represented a significant portion of her savings. This context helps to convey the depth of God's love and the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of a sinner, as each person is of immense value to God. The use of the drachm in Jesus' teaching also reflects the broader Greco-Roman influence on the region during the first century. The presence of Greek currency in Judea and surrounding areas illustrates the interconnectedness of the ancient world and the spread of Hellenistic culture. Conclusion While the drachm itself is a small coin, its mention in the New Testament carries profound theological implications. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the value of individuals in the eyes of God and the joy that accompanies their redemption. Understanding the drachm's historical and cultural context enriches the interpretation of biblical texts and deepens the appreciation of the parables of Jesus. Smith's Bible Dictionary Drachm(Luke 15:8,9) 2 Macc 4:19; 10:20; 12:43, a Greek silver coin, varying in weight on account of the use of different talents. In Luke denarii (Authorized Version "piece of silver") seem to be intended. [MONEY; SILVER] Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A drachma.Library The Three Parables of the Gospel: of the Recovery of the Lost - of ... The Famine which Oppressed Them. The Lost Coin. Growth in Grace Justification The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Misfortunes which Happened in Connection with These Things, in ... The Last Events in Galilee - the Tribute-Money, the Dispute by the ... Cheer for Despondency Love Thesaurus Drachm (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) A drachma. 2. (n.) Same as Dram. Multi-Version Concordance Drachm (2 Occurrences). Luke 15:8 Or ... /d/drachm.htm - 7k Drachma (2 Occurrences) Female (95 Occurrences) Dozing (1 Occurrence) Drachms (1 Occurrence) Resources Drachm: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Drachm (2 Occurrences)Luke 15:8 Luke 15:9 Subtopics Related Terms Four-and-twentieth (1 Occurrence) |
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