from (a gift); probably akin to the base of δίδωμι; a loan:--debt.
Transliteration:dáneion
Pronunciation:dan'-i-on
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun δάνειον (dáneion, `{{G1156}}`) directly translates to "a loan" or "debt." Its etymological root is insightful, being derived from a word meaning "a gift" and closely related to the verb δίδωμι (didomi, `{{G1325}}`), "to give." This etymological connection highlights that a loan, while a temporary giving, implies an obligation of return, distinguishing it from a gratuitous gift. The semantic range of δάνειον is quite narrow, primarily referring to financial or material obligations that are owed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δάνειον (dáneion, `{{G1156}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its single occurrence is profoundly significant. It is found in [[Matthew 18:27]], within the parable of the unforgiving servant. Here, the master, filled with compassion, forgives his servant an enormous δάνειον—a debt of ten thousand talents. This staggering sum, an almost incalculable amount in ancient currency, underscores the immense nature of the obligation. The context immediately reveals the master's boundless mercy in absolving such a colossal debt. The subsequent narrative, where the forgiven servant refuses to forgive a much smaller debt owed to him, starkly contrasts the master's magnanimity with the servant's harshness. In this parable, δάνειον serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual debt of sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding δάνειον (dáneion, `{{G1156}}`) is enhanced by examining related terms and concepts:
* **δίδωμι (didomi, `{{G1325}}`):** "to give." The root verb emphasizes the act of disbursement that initiates a loan, distinguishing it from an unreciprocated gift.
* **ὀφειλή (opheilē, `{{G3782}}`):** "debt, obligation." This is a broader term for what is owed, whether financial, moral, or spiritual. It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe sin as a debt to God.
* **ὀφειλέτης (opheiletēs, `{{G3781}}`):** "debtor." The one who is under obligation or who owes.
* **ἀφίημι (aphiēmi, `{{G863}}`):** "to send away, forgive." This is the crucial verb used for the act of "forgiving" the debt in [[Matthew 18:27]], highlighting the active release from an obligation.
* The broader biblical concept of debt, lending, and usury, as found in Old Testament law (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 15:7-11]], [[Leviticus 25:35-37]]), provides a foundational understanding of the social and ethical dimensions of debt within the biblical worldview.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, δάνειον (dáneion, `{{G1156}}`) carries immense theological weight. In [[Matthew 18:27]], the "debt" represents the vast and immeasurable sin debt owed by humanity to God. The master's forgiveness of this δάνειον beautifully illustrates the boundless grace and mercy of God, who, in Christ, has forgiven humanity's spiritual indebtedness. The parable's central theological lesson is that this divine forgiveness obligates believers to extend similar forgiveness to others. Failure to forgive the "debts" (offenses) of fellow human beings demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding or rejection of the grace received. This concept resonates deeply with the petition in the Lord's Prayer, "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" ([[Matthew 6:12]]), where "debts" (ὀφειλήματα) are explicitly linked to sins. Thus, δάνειον, though a financial term, becomes a powerful symbol for the spiritual realities of sin, divine grace, and reciprocal forgiveness.
### Summary
The Greek word δάνειον (dáneion, `{{G1156}}`) precisely denotes "a loan" or "debt." Its sole appearance in the New Testament, within the parable of the unforgiving servant in [[Matthew 18:27]], is profoundly significant. Here, it symbolizes the immense spiritual debt of sin that humanity owes to God. The master's compassionate act of forgiving this δάνειον vividly portrays God's boundless grace and mercy towards humanity. Consequently, the word underscores the theological imperative for believers to extend the same forgiveness and mercy to others, reflecting the divine compassion they themselves have received. δάνειον, therefore, serves as a potent reminder of the magnitude of divine forgiveness and the reciprocal obligation of Christ-like reconciliation among believers.
TRV