The Greek word kodrántēs, represented by G2835, is of Latin origin and refers to a farthing, which is the fourth part of an as. This term for a very small coin appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, where it is used to illustrate concepts of total payment and the value of sacrificial giving.
In its biblical usage, G2835 is employed in two distinct contexts. In Matthew, it represents the final, smallest part of a debt that must be settled. Jesus warns that one will not be released from a legal or moral prison "till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing" Matthew 5:26. In Mark's Gospel, it is used to define the value of a poor widow's offering. She threw in two mites, "which make a farthing," an act highlighted as a great sacrifice because it was all she had Mark 12:42.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context surrounding this term:
- G3016 leptón (a small coin:--mite): This is the coin that makes up a G2835 farthing. The direct relationship is defined in scripture, where a poor widow gives "two mites, which make a farthing" Mark 12:42.
- G591 apodídōmi (to give... pay... render): This verb is used in the context of settling a debt down to the last farthing, signifying the action of complete payment that is required Matthew 5:26.
- G2078 éschatos (farthest, final... uttermost): This adjective modifies farthing in Matthew's account, emphasizing the absolute and total nature of the payment required, down to the "uttermost farthing" Matthew 5:26.
- G4434 ptōchós (a beggar... poor): This describes the state of the widow whose gift of a farthing is praised, highlighting that the value of the offering is connected to her poverty Mark 12:42.
The theological significance of G2835 is derived from its symbolic use in these passages:
- The Principle of Complete Reckoning: The "uttermost farthing" serves as a metaphor for absolute accountability. It illustrates that under a system of law or justice, every part of a debt must be fulfilled, leaving nothing outstanding Matthew 5:26.
- The Value of Sacrificial Giving: The widow's offering of a farthing establishes a key kingdom principle: the value of a gift is not in its monetary worth but in the sacrifice it represents. Her small coin was valued more than the large sums given by the rich because it came from a place of poverty and total dependence Mark 12:42.
- Divine vs. Worldly Value: The term is used to contrast two economies. In one, the farthing is the last bit of a legal debt owed. In the other, it is a priceless offering of devotion. This shows how what is considered insignificant by the world can be of immense worth to God.
In summary, kodrántēs G2835 is more than just a reference to an ancient coin. Though it appears only twice, it carries significant weight. It powerfully illustrates the unyielding nature of a required payment on one hand, and the profound spiritual value of a sacrificial gift on the other. This word demonstrates how scripture uses common, everyday items to communicate deep truths about divine justice, the nature of true worship, and what God ultimately values.
TRV