### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dṓdeka**, represented by `{{G1427}}`, is formed from the words for "two" and "ten" and simply means **a dozen** or twelve. It appears **72 times** across **59 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its significance in contexts of divine appointment, foundational groups, and symbolic completeness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1427}}` is used in several key contexts. It most frequently identifies the core group of Jesus's disciples, who are called "the **twelve**" [[Matthew 10:1]]. This group is given power and authority [[Luke 9:1]] and is sent out to preach [[Mark 3:14]]. The term also refers to the foundational structure of Israel, as seen when James addresses "the **twelve** tribes" [[James 1:1]] and in the promise that the apostles will sit on **twelve** thrones, judging the **twelve** tribes of Israel [[Matthew 19:28]]. The number also carries symbolic weight, describing periods of time, such as the woman who suffered for **twelve** years [[Mark 5:25]], and quantities, like the **twelve** baskets of fragments left after feeding the multitude [[Matthew 14:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide numerical context for `{{G1427}}`:
* `{{G1417}}` **dýo** ("two"): As a component of **dṓdeka**, this word for "two" is foundational. Its connection is seen when Jesus sends forth the **twelve** disciples by "**two** and **two**" [[Mark 6:7]].
* `{{G1520}}` **heîs** ("one"): This word is often used to single out an individual from the group of twelve, as when Judas Iscariot is identified as "**one** of the **twelve**" before his betrayal ([[John 6:71]], [[Mark 14:20]]).
* `{{G4002}}` **pénte** ("five"): This number appears in the account of the feeding miracle, where Jesus uses **five** barley loaves, which results in **twelve** baskets of fragments being gathered afterward [[John 6:13]].
* `{{G5505}}` **chiliás** ("thousand"): This word is used in multiplication with `{{G1427}}` to denote large, symbolic numbers, such as the **twelve** **thousand** sealed from each tribe of Israel in the book of Revelation [[Revelation 7:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1427}}` is significant, representing divine order and authority.
* **Apostolic Foundation:** The number consistently represents the core group of Jesus's apostles, chosen to receive authority and to preach ([[Luke 9:1]], [[Mark 3:14]]). Their names are inscribed on the **twelve** foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem [[Revelation 21:14]].
* **Government of God's People:** `{{G1427}}` connects the leadership of old and new covenants. Jacob begat the **twelve** patriarchs [[Acts 7:8]], and Jesus promised the apostles would sit on **twelve** thrones to judge the **twelve** tribes of Israel [[Luke 22:30]].
* **Symbol of Divine Perfection:** In Revelation, the number signifies completeness and divine order. This is seen in the **twelve** gates, **twelve** foundations, and **twelve** angels of the holy city [[Revelation 21:12]], as well as the tree of life bearing **twelve** kinds of fruit [[Revelation 22:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1427}}` is a number imbued with significant theological weight. It serves as a label for the foundational leadership of both Israel, through the **twelve** tribes [[James 1:1]], and the church, through the **twelve** apostles [[Matthew 10:2]]. From the specific group of disciples that followed Jesus [[John 6:67]] to the symbolic architecture of the eternal city [[Revelation 21:14]], **dṓdeka** signifies divine order, governmental authority, and spiritual completeness.
TRV