of Hebrew and Chaldee origin respectively (קׇרְבָּן); a votive offering and the offering; a consecrated present (to the Temple fund); by extension (the latter term) the Treasury itself, i.e. the room where the contribution boxes stood:--Corban, treasury.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **κορβᾶν (korbân)**, represented by `{{G2878}}`, is a term of Hebrew and Chaldee origin. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition covers both a votive offering or consecrated present to the Temple fund, and by extension, the **treasury** itself where such contributions were kept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2878}}` appears in two distinct contexts. In Mark, it is used to describe a vow where a person declares their resources as **Corban**, meaning "a gift" dedicated to God, thereby excusing them from the duty of supporting their parents [[Mark 7:11]]. In Matthew, the word is translated as **treasury**, referring to the sacred repository in the Temple. The chief priests declared it unlawful to place the "price of blood" into the **treasury** after Judas returned the silver pieces [[Matthew 27:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
A key related word clarifies the meaning of `{{G2878}}`:
* `{{G1435}}` **dōron** (a gift): This word is used explicitly in [[Mark 7:11]] to translate **Corban**, defining it as "a gift". `{{G1435}}` is used more broadly for offerings brought to the altar [[Matthew 5:23]], the presents brought to Jesus by the magi [[Matthew 2:11]], and the offering commanded by Moses [[Matthew 8:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2878}}` is found in its application within Jewish religious practice.
* **Consecrated Offerings:** The term signifies something irrevocably dedicated to God, whether it is a personal possession vowed as **Corban** or money placed in the Temple **treasury**.
* **Perversion of Piety:** The use of **Corban** in [[Mark 7:11]] illustrates a conflict between religious tradition and divine commandment, where a vow to God was used to neglect the primary duty of honoring one's parents.
* **Sanctity of the Treasury:** The chief priests' hesitation to deposit blood money into the **treasury** underscores the sacred character of the Temple fund, as it was set apart for God's use [[Matthew 27:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2878}}` is a specific term that carries a dual meaning as both a consecrated **gift** and the Temple **treasury** that held such gifts. While appearing rarely, its usage provides a critical window into the cultural and religious practices of the time, highlighting the profound importance of vows and offerings and exposing how even sacred duties could be misused.
TRV