### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dídrachmon**, represented by `{{G1323}}`, refers to a **double drachma (didrachm)**, a form of currency specifically used for **tribute**. This term is rare, appearing only **2 times** within a single biblical verse, which frames a key question posed to the apostle Peter.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole context for `{{G1323}}` is found in [[Matthew 17:24]]. Upon arriving in **Capernaum** `{{G2584}}`, individuals who **received** `{{G2983}}` the **tribute** money approached **Peter** `{{G4074}}`. They directly questioned him about his **master** `{{G1320}}`, asking, "Doth not your master **pay** `{{G5055}}` **tribute**?" This moment places Jesus and his disciples in direct interaction with the financial obligations of their time and sets the stage for a discussion on responsibility.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this passage illuminate the context of the tribute question:
* `{{G5055}}` **teléō** (to end, i.e. complete, execute, conclude, discharge (a debt)): This word is used for the act of paying the **tribute** [[Matthew 17:24]]. Its broader use includes the concept of fulfilling a purpose, as when Jesus declared, "It is **finished**" [[John 19:30]].
* `{{G1320}}` **didáskalos** (an instructor): This is the term used for **master** when the collectors ask Peter about Jesus. It highlights Jesus's role as a teacher and leader, whose actions were subject to public scrutiny [[Matthew 17:24]]. The same word is used when Jesus identifies himself as "Lord and **Master**" [[John 13:14]].
* `{{G2983}}` **lambánō** (to take (in very many applications, literally and figuratively)): This word describes the men who **received** or collected the tribute money [[Matthew 17:24]]. It signifies the act of taking or obtaining, a theme also seen in the promise that believers shall **receive** power from the Holy Ghost [[Acts 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1323}}` is centered on the single event it describes. It raises important questions about the relationship between the divine and earthly realms.
* **Civic Responsibility:** The question regarding the **tribute** immediately places Jesus and his followers within the context of worldly systems and obligations. It demonstrates that the ministry of the **master** `{{G1320}}` was not entirely removed from the civic and religious expectations of the day [[Matthew 17:24]].
* **Scrutiny of the Master:** The inquiry is a direct examination of Jesus's conduct. By asking if the **master** pays the **tribute**, the collectors are probing his adherence to established law, thereby testing his public character and teachings.
* **The Nature of Payment:** The act of paying a debt, represented by the word **teléō** `{{G5055}}`, is brought to the forefront. While the verse only contains the question, it introduces the theme of fulfilling an obligation, which resonates with Jesus's ultimate mission to fulfill all things written in the scriptures [[Luke 18:31]].
### Summary
In summary, **dídrachmon** `{{G1323}}` is a highly specific term for a **tribute**. Though its usage is limited to a single question in [[Matthew 17:24]], it is significant. It marks a moment of direct inquiry into Jesus's relationship with earthly authority, highlighting his identity as a **master** and the obligations associated with that role. This one verse illustrates the tension and interaction between the ministry of Jesus and the established structures of his world.
TRV