### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV