The Greek word hendékatos, represented by G1734, is an ordinal number meaning eleventh. It is derived from the word for eleven, ἕνδεκα. This term appears only 3 times in the New Testament across 3 unique verses, yet its usage in these contexts is significant.
The word G1734 is used in two key biblical settings. In the Gospel of Matthew, it marks a specific time in the parable of the laborers, where the landowner goes out "about the eleventh hour" to hire workers who are standing idle Matthew 20:6. These workers, who came at the last possible moment, still received a full day's wage Matthew 20:9. In the book of Revelation, the term appears in a descriptive list of the twelve foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem, with the eleventh foundation being a jacinth Revelation 21:20.
Several related words help clarify the context in which G1734 is used, particularly other ordinal numbers and terms related to time and sequence:
- G1182 dékatos (tenth): This ordinal number for tenth appears immediately before G1734 in the list of the New Jerusalem's foundations, establishing a clear sequence Revelation 21:20.
- G1428 dōdékatos (twelfth): As the term for twelfth, this word follows G1734 in the same list of foundations, completing the set Revelation 21:20.
- G5610 hṓra (hour): This word for hour is directly associated with G1734 in Matthew's parable, defining the time of day and emphasizing the lateness of the workers' arrival (Matthew 20:6, 9).
- G692 argós (idle): This adjective meaning inactive, i.e. unemployed describes the state of the workers found at the eleventh hour, highlighting their need before the landowner hired them Matthew 20:6.
The theological weight of G1734 stems from its specific contextual applications.
- The Final Opportunity: In the parable of the laborers, the eleventh hour symbolizes the last possible moment to respond. Those found standing idle at this late hour are still given a chance to work Matthew 20:6.
- Sovereign Grace: The payment of the workers hired at the eleventh hour demonstrates a grace that is not dependent on the amount of work performed. They received the same penny as those who had worked all day, illustrating a generosity that transcends merit Matthew 20:9.
- Divine Order: In Revelation, the placement of the eleventh foundation as a jacinth is not arbitrary but part of a specific, divine design for the holy city. It shows that every part, in its proper order, contributes to the glory of God's final creation Revelation 21:20.
In summary, while G1734 is a simple numerical term, its biblical usage is rich with meaning. It serves as a powerful illustration of God's grace, showing that even those who come at the final hour are welcomed and rewarded. Furthermore, its inclusion in the foundations of the New Jerusalem underscores its role within God's perfect and unchangeable plan. The word hendékatos marks a point in time and sequence that carries profound implications for understanding grace and divine order.
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