### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1176 (δέκα, *déka*) is a primary cardinal number, meaning "ten." Its fundamental semantic range is purely numerical, representing the quantity of ten units. As a base number, it forms the foundation for other numerical expressions, such as "eighteen" (δέκα ὀκτώ, literally "ten eight"). In its most straightforward usage, G1176 functions precisely as its English equivalent, indicating a specific count. However, within biblical contexts, numbers often carry symbolic weight beyond their mere quantitative value, and "ten" is no exception, though its primary meaning remains literal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G1176 (δέκα) appears frequently in the New Testament, often in contexts that highlight its numerical precision while sometimes hinting at deeper significance.
In the Synoptic Gospels, "ten" figures prominently in several parables and narratives:
* The Parable of the Ten Virgins in [[Matthew 25:1-13]] depicts ten virgins, five wise and five foolish, awaiting the bridegroom. Here, "ten" represents a complete group, emphasizing the readiness or lack thereof within the community awaiting Christ's return.
* The Parable of the Minas (or Pounds) in [[Luke 19:11-27]] involves a nobleman entrusting ten minas to his servants. The number "ten" here signifies a substantial, though not overwhelming, sum, testing the faithfulness and stewardship of the servants. Similarly, in the Parable of the Talents ([[Matthew 25:14-30]]), while not explicitly using "ten" for the initial distribution, the concept of varying amounts given to individuals is parallel.
* The healing of the Ten Lepers in [[Luke 17:11-19]] illustrates Jesus' miraculous power and highlights the singular gratitude of the Samaritan among the ten. "Ten" here is a definite number of individuals who received healing, setting the stage for the contrast in their responses.
In the book of Revelation, "ten" takes on a more symbolic and eschatological dimension:
* The Beast from the Sea in [[Revelation 13:1]] is described as having "ten horns and seven heads, and on its horns ten diadems."
* The scarlet beast in [[Revelation 17:3]] and [[Revelation 17:7]] also possesses "ten horns."
* These ten horns are later identified as "ten kings" who will receive authority for a short time with the Beast ([[Revelation 17:12]], [[Revelation 17:16]]). In these apocalyptic visions, "ten" often signifies a complete, though perhaps limited, extent of power or authority, particularly in opposition to God's kingdom. It suggests a full complement of earthly power arrayed against the divine.
While G1176 is a New Testament Greek word, its significance is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, particularly through the concept of the "Ten Commandments" (though the Hebrew `{{H6235}}` and `{{H1697}}` are used, the concept is foundational for understanding "ten" as a symbol of divine law and completeness).
### Related Words & Concepts
G1176 (δέκα) is directly related to other Greek numerical terms. For instance, it forms the basis for G1181 (δεκάτη, *dekatē*), meaning "a tenth part" or "tithe," and G1182 (δεκατόω, *dekatoō*), "to exact or pay tithes." This connection underscores the numerical precision of "ten" in matters of giving and divine requirement.
Conceptually, G1176 stands alongside other significant biblical numbers, such as `{{G1520}}` (εἷς, *heis* - one, signifying unity), `{{G1411}}` (τρεῖς, *treis* - three, often associated with divine completeness or resurrection), `{{G5064}}` (τεσσαράκοντα, *tessarakonta* - forty, denoting periods of testing or judgment), and `{{G5505}}` (χίλιοι, *chilioi* - a thousand, often representing a vast, indefinite number or a perfect, complete period). The Hebrew equivalent of G1176 is `{{H6235}}` (עֶשֶׂר, *'eser*), which likewise means "ten" and is central to the "ten words" or Decalogue.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G1176 (δέκα) is multifaceted, drawing both from its literal numerical value and its symbolic associations, often rooted in Old Testament precedent.
1. **Divine Law and Completeness:** The most prominent theological association of "ten" is with the Decalogue, the Ten Commandments. Though the Greek word for "ten" itself is not used to describe the commandments in the Septuagint (rather "ten words" or "ten sayings"), the concept is foundational. "Ten" thus comes to signify the complete and comprehensive nature of God's moral law, a full revelation of divine expectation for human conduct. It represents a foundational covenantal standard.
2. **Testing and Stewardship:** In the parables of Jesus, "ten" often marks a specific quantity used to test faithfulness, diligence, or readiness. The ten virgins illustrate the necessity of spiritual preparedness. The ten minas highlight the responsibility of stewardship and the expectation of fruitfulness from what has been entrusted. In these contexts, "ten" serves as a benchmark or a defined measure against which human response is evaluated.
3. **Limited but Complete Power (Eschatological):** In the apocalyptic imagery of Revelation, "ten" frequently characterizes the power of earthly kingdoms or anti-Christian forces. The "ten horns" symbolize a complete, unified, and powerful, yet ultimately limited and temporary, authority that opposes God's reign. This suggests that even formidable worldly power operates within divine parameters and will ultimately be overcome. It signifies a full manifestation of human or demonic authority, but one that is not ultimate.
4. **Holistic Representation:** In various narratives, "ten" can represent a significant, representative group or an entire, though specific, quantity. The ten lepers represent a complete set of individuals who received healing, highlighting the singular response of the one who returned to give thanks. This emphasizes that while the number is precise, it often points to a larger spiritual truth applicable to a broader whole.
### Summary
G1176 (δέκα, *déka*) is fundamentally a cardinal number meaning "ten." While its primary usage is literal, indicating a precise quantity, its occurrences in the New Testament, especially in parables and apocalyptic literature, imbue it with significant theological implications. It often signifies completeness, particularly in relation to divine law (the Decalogue). In parables, "ten" frequently serves as a measure for testing faithfulness, stewardship, and readiness for Christ's return. In eschatological contexts, particularly in Revelation, it symbolizes a complete, powerful, yet ultimately limited and temporary authority, often in opposition to God's kingdom. Thus, G1176 points to concepts of comprehensive divine expectation, human responsibility, and the defined, though formidable, nature of worldly opposition to God's ultimate sovereignty.
TRV