### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kollybistḗs**, represented by `{{G2855}}`, serves as the term for a **coin-dealer** or **(money-)changer**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is derived from a word for a small coin and is used exclusively to describe individuals engaged in financial transactions within the temple in Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G2855}}` is found only in the gospel accounts of Jesus cleansing the temple. In both Matthew and Mark, Jesus **went into** `{{G1525}}` the **temple** `{{G2411}}` and **cast out** `{{G1544}}` those buying and selling, and specifically **overthrew** `{{G2690}}` the **tables** `{{G5132}}` of the **moneychangers** ([[Matthew 21:12]], [[Mark 11:15]]). The narrative in John provides further detail, noting that Jesus **made** `{{G4160}}` a **scourge** `{{G5416}}` and **drove** `{{G1544}}` out the merchants, sheep, and oxen, and **poured out** `{{G1632}}` the **changers'** `{{G2855}}` money `{{G2772}}` before he overthrew their tables [[John 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of this dramatic event:
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject (literally or figuratively):--bring forth, cast (forth, out), drive (out)): This verb describes the forceful action Jesus took against the merchants. He is shown to **cast out** those who sold and bought in the temple [[Matthew 21:12]].
* `{{G2411}}` **hierón** (a sacred place, i.e. the entire precincts... of the Temple): This word establishes the location of the event. All three uses of `{{G2855}}` occur when Jesus enters the **temple** in Jerusalem [[Mark 11:15]].
* `{{G5132}}` **trápeza** (a table... also a counter for money): This is the specific object associated with the **moneychangers**. In all accounts, Jesus' disruptive act includes overthrowing their **tables** [[John 2:15]].
* `{{G2690}}` **katastréphō** (to turn upside down, i.e. upset): This verb provides a vivid description of Jesus' action. He **overthrew** the tables of the moneychangers, physically upending their business [[Matthew 21:12]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2855}}` carries significant weight in its limited appearances:
* **Profaning Sacred Space:** The presence of **moneychangers** `{{G2855}}` highlights commerce occurring within the **temple** `{{G2411}}` of God `{{G2316}}`, a place intended for worship. Jesus' decisive action to **cast out** `{{G1544}}` these individuals underscores the incompatibility of this business with the sacred nature of the location [[Matthew 21:12]].
* **Divine Authority:** By driving out those who sold **doves** `{{G4058}}`, **sheep** `{{G4263}}`, and **oxen** `{{G1016}}` and overturning the tables of the **moneychangers**, Jesus demonstrates his authority over the temple activities [[John 2:15]].
* **Symbolic Judgment:** The act of pouring out the **changers'** `{{G2855}}` **money** `{{G2772}}` and overthrowing their **tables** `{{G5132}}` serves as a potent, physical judgment against the commercialization of worship and the defilement of His Father's house [[John 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **kollybistḗs** `{{G2855}}` is a highly specific term, exclusively linked to the cleansing of the temple. While it appears only three times, its context is pivotal, defining the individuals whose commercial activities provoked a direct and forceful response from **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`. The word is central to a narrative that contrasts the sacred purpose of the **temple** `{{G2411}}` with the secular business being conducted within it, illustrating a powerful moment of divine judgment.
TRV