### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dapánē**, represented by `{{G1160}}`, refers to **cost** or expense. Its definition, derived from a word meaning "to devour," evokes the idea of an expense that consumes one's resources. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting a very specific and practical application of this concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1160}}` is found in a teaching where Jesus illustrates the importance of foresight and preparation. In a hypothetical scenario, a person **intending** `{{G2309}}` to **build** `{{G3618}}` a **tower** `{{G4444}}` is advised to first sit down and calculate the **cost** [[Luke 14:28]]. This practical act of counting the **cost** determines if they have the resources to see the project through to its **finishing** `{{G535}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words help frame the context in which **dapánē** appears:
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to build): This word signifies the act of construction that necessitates calculating the cost. It is used for building a house on a rock [[Matthew 7:24]] and for building the church [[Matthew 16:18]].
* `{{G4444}}` **pýrgos** (tower): This term specifies the project being undertaken, a significant structure requiring substantial resources. It also appears in parables about vineyards [[Matthew 21:33]].
* `{{G5585}}` **psēphízō** (to compute): This is the direct action associated with the cost, meaning to count or calculate. It appears again in Revelation, where believers are instructed to **count** the number of the beast [[Revelation 13:18]].
* `{{G2309}}` **thélō** (intending): This word captures the will or desire to start a project. It reflects a choice or intention, such as God's will to have mercy [[Matthew 9:13]] or a person's will to follow Christ [[Luke 9:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1160}}` is derived from the principle it illustrates: the necessity of evaluating the full commitment required for a significant undertaking.
* **Prudence in Commitment:** The act of counting the **cost** is presented as the **first** `{{G4412}}` step for anyone **intending** `{{G2309}}` a project. This establishes a foundational principle of wise planning before action, a theme seen in seeking first God's kingdom [[Matthew 6:33]].
* **Resource Assessment:** The question of **whether** `{{G1487}}` one **has** `{{G2192}}` enough to finish highlights the importance of assessing one's resources. This points to understanding the requirements for spiritual endeavors and recognizing the source of true sufficiency.
* **The Cost of Discipleship:** While the verse speaks of a physical **tower** `{{G4444}}`, the principle is directly applicable to the spiritual life. Following Christ requires a deliberate decision and an understanding of the commitment, as illustrated by the call to take up one's cross [[Luke 9:23]].
### Summary
In summary, **dapánē** `{{G1160}}` provides a potent, singular image within scripture. Though used only once, its context in Jesus' teaching about building a tower [[Luke 14:28]] establishes a critical principle of counting the **cost** before commitment. It underscores the importance of foresight, planning, and soberly assessing the requirements of any major endeavor, a lesson that extends from earthly projects to the ultimate commitment of spiritual discipleship.
TRV