The term "two-drachma" refers to a specific tax mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of Matthew. This tax is also known as the "temple tax," which was a religious levy imposed on Jewish males for the maintenance of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. The two-drachma tax is equivalent to the half-shekel tax described in the Old Testament.

Biblical Context

The two-drachma tax is mentioned in Matthew 17:24-27. In this passage, Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum, where collectors of the two-drachma tax approach Peter and inquire whether Jesus pays the temple tax. The Berean Standard Bible records the exchange as follows:

"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.'" (Matthew 17:24-27)

Historical and Religious Significance

The two-drachma tax has its roots in the Old Testament, specifically in Exodus 30:13-16, where God commands Moses to collect a half-shekel from every Israelite male over the age of twenty as a ransom for their lives and for the service of the Tent of Meeting. This tax was later used for the upkeep of the Temple in Jerusalem.

In the New Testament context, the two-drachma tax was a customary obligation for Jewish males, and it was collected annually. The tax was equivalent to two Greek drachmas, which was approximately the same as the half-shekel.

Theological Implications

The account of the two-drachma tax in Matthew 17 highlights several theological themes. First, it underscores Jesus' identity as the Son of God. By questioning Peter about the nature of taxation and declaring that "the sons are exempt," Jesus implies His divine sonship and authority over the Temple, which is His Father's house.

Second, the passage illustrates Jesus' humility and His willingness to submit to human institutions to avoid unnecessary offense. Despite His exemption, Jesus instructs Peter to pay the tax, demonstrating His respect for the established religious practices of His time.

Finally, the miraculous provision of the four-drachma coin from the fish's mouth serves as a testament to Jesus' divine power and His ability to provide for the needs of His followers. This miracle reassures believers of God's provision and care in their lives.

Conclusion

The two-drachma tax narrative in the Gospel of Matthew provides insight into the historical and religious practices of first-century Judaism while also revealing key aspects of Jesus' identity and mission. Through this account, believers are reminded of Jesus' divine authority, His humility, and His provision for His people.1323. didrachmon -- a double drachma
... silver coin. Word Origin from dis and drachme Definition a double drachma
NASB Word Usage two-drachma (2). a double drachma. From ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1323.htm - 6kTwo-drachma (1 Occurrence)
Two-drachma. Two-and-thirtieth, Two-drachma. Twoedged .
Multi-Version Concordance Two-drachma (1 Occurrence). Matthew ...
/t/two-drachma.htm - 6k

Twoedged (1 Occurrence)

/t/twoedged.htm - 6k

Two-and-thirtieth (1 Occurrence)
Two-and-thirtieth. Two-and-a-half, Two-and-thirtieth. Two-drachma . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (DBY). Two-and-a-half, Two-and-thirtieth. Two-drachma . ...
/t/two-and-thirtieth.htm - 6k

Didrachma (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) A two-drachma piece; an ancient Greek silver coin,
worth nearly forty cents. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. DIDRACHMA. ...
/d/didrachma.htm - 7k

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