### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ἀγγεῖον (G30), transliterated as angeîon, denotes a "receptacle" or "vessel." Its etymological root suggests a connection to objects that are "bent" or "curved," akin to a pail or basket, emphasizing its function as a container designed to hold substances, typically liquids. The core meaning is thus fundamentally practical and concrete: a container for holding or carrying something. Unlike broader terms for "vessel," ἀγγεῖον tends to imply a container specifically for storage or transport of contents, rather than merely an instrument or article.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀγγεῖον appears only twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring within the same verse in the Gospel of Matthew:
* **[[Matthew 25:4]]**: "but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps."
* This verse is part of the Parable of the Ten Virgins, a narrative centered on preparedness for the coming of the bridegroom (symbolizing Christ). The wise virgins, in addition to having oil in their lamps, also carried extra oil in their ἀγγεῖον (vessels). The foolish virgins, by contrast, took no extra oil in their vessels.
* In this context, the ἀγγεῖον serves as a supplementary container for a vital resource (oil) that ensures the lamps can continue to burn over an extended period. The literal function of a vessel as a holder is straightforwardly applied here, highlighting the practical foresight of the wise virgins. The presence of these vessels, and their contents, becomes the crucial differentiator between the prepared and the unprepared.
### Related Words & Concepts
While ἀγγεῖον specifically refers to a container, it is closely related to and often distinguished from other terms for "vessel" or "object" in the biblical lexicon:
* σκεῦος (`{{G4632}}`): This is a much broader and more frequently used term in the New Testament, encompassing "vessel," "utensil," "instrument," or "article." While ἀγγεῖον is a specific type of container, σκεῦος can refer to any kind of implement or object. Notably, σκεῦος is often used metaphorically (e.g., "vessels of wrath" in [[Romans 9:22]], "vessels of mercy" in [[Romans 9:23]], or "chosen vessel" for Paul in [[Acts 9:15]]). ἀγγεῖον lacks this broad metaphorical range in its New Testament usage.
* ἀγγος: While not a distinct Strong's number for NT usage, this is a related word that also signifies a pot, jar, or vessel, sharing the etymological root with ἀγγεῖον.
* Concepts related to ἀγγεῖον in its specific context include:
* **Preparedness and Foresight:** The act of carrying extra oil in a vessel demonstrates a proactive readiness for future eventualities.
* **Provision and Storage:** The vessel is a means of ensuring a sustained supply of a necessary resource.
* **Internal Resource:** The oil in the vessel represents an inner, personal reserve, distinct from the immediate, visible supply in the lamp.
### Theological Significance
Despite its limited occurrences, the theological significance of ἀγγεῖον is profound due to its pivotal role in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. The vessels, containing extra oil for the lamps, serve as a powerful symbol of spiritual preparedness and the nature of genuine discipleship:
* **Spiritual Readiness for Christ's Return:** The wise virgins' possession of oil in their ἀγγεῖον symbolizes a deep, enduring spiritual reservoir. This is not merely an outward profession of faith (represented by the lamp itself) but an inner, cultivated life of spiritual vitality, often interpreted as the indwelling Holy Spirit, good works, or a consistent walk of obedience and devotion. This inner resource enables believers to persevere through delayed expectation and remain vigilant for the Lord's return.
* **Distinction Between Form and Substance:** The parable highlights the crucial difference between outward religious observance (the lamp) and an inner spiritual reality (the oil in the vessel). The foolish virgins had lamps but lacked the essential, sustained spiritual substance, demonstrating a superficiality that ultimately led to exclusion from the wedding feast. The ἀγγεῖον thus represents the personal, non-transferable spiritual capital that truly prepares one for eternity.
* **The Necessity of Personal Provision:** The inability of the foolish virgins to borrow oil from the wise underscores the personal responsibility for spiritual readiness. One cannot borrow or inherit true spiritual preparedness; it must be cultivated individually. The ἀγγεῖον becomes a metaphor for the individual's spiritual capacity and the depth of their relationship with God.
### Summary
ἀγγεῖον (G30) precisely defines a "receptacle" or "vessel," a container for holding substances. Its two New Testament occurrences in [[Matthew 25:4]], within the Parable of the Ten Virgins, imbue this seemingly simple object with profound theological weight. In this context, the ἀγγεῖον holding extra oil serves as a powerful symbol of spiritual preparedness, foresight, and the essential inner resources—such as the Holy Spirit, a life of consistent obedience, and deep devotion—that distinguish true, enduring discipleship from superficial religious observance. It underscores the critical need for personal, sustained spiritual vitality to be ready for the Lord's return.
TRV