### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G2773 (κermatisths, transliterated as *kermatistḗs*) denotes "a handler of coins" or "money-broker," specifically one who exchanges currency. Its etymology traces to a derivative of κέρμα (kerma), which refers to "small coin" or "a piece of money." This highlights the nature of their trade: dealing with physical currency, often small denominations, and facilitating exchange between different monetary systems. Unlike general merchants, a *kermatistḗs* specialized in the specific transaction of currency conversion, typically for a fee. The term implies a professional engaged in the business of exchanging foreign currency for local or required tender.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G2773 appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of John, specifically within the account of Jesus cleansing the Temple:
* [[John 2:14]]: "And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money-changers (*kermatistḗs*) sitting there."
This solitary occurrence provides crucial context for understanding the role and perceived impropriety of these individuals. The scene unfolds in the outer court of the Temple, known as the Court of the Gentiles. Pilgrims from various regions would arrive in Jerusalem for Passover, bringing with them diverse foreign currencies. The Temple tax, however, had to be paid in a specific currency, the Tyrian shekel, due to its high silver content and purity. Furthermore, animals for sacrifice needed to be purchased within the Temple precincts, often from sellers approved by the Temple authorities.
The *kermatistḗs* provided the necessary service of exchanging foreign currency for the acceptable Temple coinage. While the service itself was arguably necessary for pilgrims, Jesus' indignation was directed at the location and the potential for exploitation. The commercial activity transformed a sacred space, intended for prayer and worship for all nations, into a bustling marketplace, diverting its sacred purpose. The presence of these money-changers, alongside animal sellers, symbolized the corruption and commercialization that had infiltrated the Temple worship. Jesus' action, overturning their tables, was a powerful prophetic sign against the profanation of God's house.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding G2773 is enhanced by examining related terms and concepts:
* κέρμα (kerma): The root word from which *kermatistḗs* is derived, meaning "small coin" or "piece of money." This underscores the specific nature of the money-changer's trade.
* κολλυβιστής (kollubistḗs - `{{G2855}}`): Another Greek term for "money-changer," used in the synoptic accounts of the Temple cleansing ([[Matthew 21:12]], [[Mark 11:15]]). This term is derived from κόλλυβος (kollubos), referring to a small coin or the fee charged for exchange. While *kermatistḗs* emphasizes the handling of coins, *kollubistḗs* might imply the fee or profit derived from the exchange. Both terms describe the same profession.
* πωλέω (pōleō - `{{G4453}}`): "to sell." This broader term describes the activity of the animal sellers present alongside the money-changers, indicating the overall commercial atmosphere.
* ἀγοράζω (agorazō - `{{G59}}`): "to buy." This term describes the pilgrims' need to acquire animals for sacrifice and to pay the Temple tax.
* Temple Tax: The half-shekel Temple tax, mandated in [[Exodus 30:13-16]], required specific currency, creating the demand for money-changers.
* Sacrificial System: The need for unblemished animals for offerings necessitated their purchase, often within the Temple courts.
### Theological Significance
The presence and subsequent expulsion of the *kermatistḗs* by Jesus carry profound theological significance:
1. **Zeal for God's House:** Jesus' actions demonstrate His fervent zeal for the sanctity and proper function of the Temple. His quotation from [[Isaiah 56:7]] and [[Jeremiah 7:11]] ("My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations; but you have made it a den of robbers") underscores His passion for pure worship and His rejection of anything that defiles or hinders it.
2. **Profanation of Sacred Space:** The commercial activities, including money changing, transformed a holy place of worship into a marketplace. This commercialization obscured the Temple's primary purpose as a place of communion with God, particularly for Gentiles who had access only to this outer court.
3. **Critique of Exploitation:** While the service was necessary, the money-changers often charged exorbitant rates, effectively exploiting pilgrims. Jesus' condemnation as a "den of robbers" suggests an ethical critique of avarice and the abuse of religious necessity for personal gain.
4. **Divine Authority:** Jesus' actions in cleansing the Temple are a powerful demonstration of His divine authority over the Temple and its practices. He acts not merely as a prophet but as the Son of God, exercising rightful dominion over His Father's house. This event foreshadows the shift from the physical Temple to Jesus Himself as the true locus of God's presence.
5. **True Worship vs. Ritualism/Commercialism:** The episode highlights a tension between outward religious observance (sacrifices, Temple tax) and the inward reality of true worship. The focus on commercial transactions had overshadowed the spiritual essence of approaching God.
### Summary
The Greek term G2773 (*kermatistḗs*) precisely identifies a "money-changer" or "handler of coins." Its singular appearance in [[John 2:14]] places it centrally within the narrative of Jesus' Temple cleansing. These individuals performed the necessary service of currency exchange for pilgrims, enabling them to pay the Temple tax and purchase sacrificial animals. However, their presence and the associated commercialism in the Temple courts, coupled with potential exploitation, were deemed by Jesus to be a profound desecration of God's holy house. The expulsion of the *kermatistḗs* and other merchants serves as a powerful theological statement about Jesus' zeal for pure worship, His divine authority, and His condemnation of commercialism and exploitation within sacred spaces, emphasizing the Temple's true purpose as a "house of prayer for all nations."
TRV