### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun κόρος (kóros), Strong's `{{G2884}}`, refers to a specific unit of dry and liquid measure. Its base definition explicitly states its Hebrew origin, deriving from `{{H3734}}`, the Hebrew word *kōr* (כֹּר). This unit, known as a "cor" or "homer," was a substantial measure in the ancient Near East, typically estimated to be around 10 to 12 bushels (approximately 220-250 liters). As a measure, its semantic range is quite narrow, denoting only this particular volume. It represents one of the largest capacity measures used for grain, flour, or liquids like oil and wine, emphasizing significant quantities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κόρος appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 16:7]]**: In the Parable of the Dishonest Manager, Jesus describes a manager who, after being dismissed, shrewdly reduces the debts of his master's debtors. One debtor owed "a hundred measures of wheat" (ἑκατὸν κόρους σίτου). Here, κόρος specifies the large quantity of wheat owed. The manager's act of reducing this significant debt by twenty percent (to eighty measures) highlights his cunning and forethought in securing his future. The use of κόρος underscores the substantial nature of the debt and, by extension, the wealth of the master, providing a tangible example within the parable's narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
Being a unit of measure, κόρος relates directly to other biblical weights and measures.
* **Hebrew Origin**: Its direct etymological link is to the Hebrew *kōr* (`{{H3734}}`), found throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [[1 Kings 4:22]], [[Ezekiel 45:14]]). This connection highlights the continuity of ancient measurement systems between the Old and New Testaments.
* **Other Measures**: In the biblical context, κόρος stands alongside other capacity measures such as the ephah (`{{H374}}`), seah (`{{H5429}}`), bath (`{{G903}}`), and modius (`{{G3448}}`). These terms collectively provide insight into the economic and agricultural realities of the biblical world.
* **Stewardship**: The term's sole New Testament occurrence places it within a parable concerning stewardship, wealth, and the use of earthly resources. Concepts of debt, assets, and financial dealings are central to understanding the parable's message.
### Theological Significance
While κόρος itself is a technical term for a unit of measure and lacks inherent theological meaning, its singular New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 16:7]] imbues it with profound contextual significance. In the Parable of the Dishonest Manager, the "hundred measures of wheat" (κόρους σίτου) represent a substantial earthly asset, a tangible example of the "unrighteous mammon" that Jesus discusses. The large quantity emphasizes the scale of the manager's responsibility and the gravity of his actions.
Theologically, the presence of κόρος serves to ground the parable in a relatable, everyday economic reality. It underscores Jesus' method of teaching spiritual truths through practical, material examples. The parable's overarching message is not about the measure itself, but about the wise and shrewd use of earthly resources, however great, for eternal purposes. The manager's foresight in worldly matters is contrasted with believers' potential lack of foresight in spiritual matters. Thus, κόρος functions as a concrete detail that facilitates a deeper understanding of faithful stewardship, the transient nature of material wealth, and the imperative to prepare for eternity.
### Summary
The Greek term κόρος (`{{G2884}}`) denotes a "cor" or "homer," a large unit of dry and liquid measure derived from the Hebrew *kōr* (`{{H3734}}`). Its sole New Testament occurrence is in [[Luke 16:7]], where it specifies the "hundred measures of wheat" in the Parable of the Dishonest Manager. In this context, κόρος is a crucial detail that highlights the significant quantity of the debt, grounding the parable in a tangible economic reality. Theologically, while a simple unit of measure, its presence underscores the parable's teachings on faithful stewardship, the wise use of earthly resources, and preparation for eternal life, demonstrating how Jesus utilized everyday examples to convey profound spiritual truths.
TRV