### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **déka**, represented by `{{G1176}}`, is a primary number meaning **ten**. It appears 27 times across 24 unique verses. While it often signifies a literal quantity, its definition notes its use in forming compound numbers like **eighteen**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1176}}` is frequently used in parables to establish a specific group or amount for teaching purposes. Jesus tells of **ten** virgins waiting for a bridegroom to illustrate readiness for the **kingdom** of **heaven** [[Matthew 25:1]], a woman who lost one of her **ten** pieces of silver [[Luke 15:8]], and a nobleman who entrusted **ten** servants with **ten** pounds [[Luke 19:13]]. In Revelation, the number takes on symbolic weight, describing a beast with **seven** heads and **ten** horns [[Revelation 13:1]], with the horns representing **ten** kings [[Revelation 17:12]]. It also denotes a limited period of suffering, as in "tribulation **ten** days" [[Revelation 2:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other numerical terms are used in conjunction with or in contrast to **déka**:
* `{{G1767}}` **ennéa** (nine): This primary number is used in direct contrast to `{{G1176}}`. After healing **ten** lepers, Jesus asks, "but where are the **nine**?" [[Luke 17:17]].
* `{{G2033}}` **heptá** (seven): This primary number, meaning "seven," is frequently paired with `{{G1176}}` in Revelation's imagery, such as the dragon and the beast having **seven** heads and **ten** horns ([[Revelation 12:3]], [[Revelation 17:3]]).
* `{{G3638}}` **oktṓ** (eight): This primary numeral is combined with `{{G1176}}` to form the number eighteen. This is seen in the account of the woman bound by Satan for **eighteen** years [[Luke 13:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1176}}` is revealed through its contextual applications.
* **Stewardship and Accountability:** The number **ten** is used to frame tests of faithfulness. The servant who multiplied his master's money to **ten** pounds was rewarded with authority over **ten** cities [[Luke 19:17]], linking responsibility with reward.
* **Symbol of Worldly Power:** In the prophetic book of Revelation, the **ten** horns on the beast represent earthly authority. These are explicitly defined as "**ten** kings" who receive power for a short time with the beast [[Revelation 17:12]].
* **A Basis for Grouping and Testing:** The word is used to define a whole group being tested or addressed, such as the **ten** lepers who were cleansed [[Luke 17:12]] or the **ten** disciples who were indignant with James and John [[Mark 10:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1176}}` **déka** is more than just a numerical value. While it functions as a literal count in many instances, such as with the **ten** lepers or **ten** pieces of silver, it also serves as a foundational number in parables about accountability and in apocalyptic visions to symbolize the totality of worldly power. Its use, whether for a group of people, a period of time, or the horns of a prophetic beast, gives it significant narrative and theological weight.
TRV