from νομίζω; what is reckoned as of value (after the Latin numisma), i.e. current coin:--money.
Transliteration:nómisma
Pronunciation:nom'-is-mah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word nómisma (`{{G3546}}`) is derived from the verb nomízō (`{{G3549}}`), which carries the meaning "to think, suppose, customarily practice, or deem lawful." This etymological root is crucial, as it connects the concept of "money" to something that is established, recognized, or customary within a given society. The primary meaning of nómisma is "what is reckoned as of value," specifically referring to "current coin" or "money." It denotes a medium of exchange that is legally or customarily accepted and recognized for its worth. The definition notes its connection to the Latin "numisma," which further reinforces the idea of a standardized, official coin, suggesting a formal, governmental recognition of its value. While its direct translation is narrow, encompassing only "money," the underlying semantic range extends to the idea of something *established by custom or law* as a standard of value, distinguishing it from mere valuable items.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term nómisma (`{{G3546}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Matthew 22:19]]. This singular occurrence is found within the narrative of Jesus being questioned by the Pharisees and Herodians concerning the lawfulness of paying taxes to Caesar. They pose the question, "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" Jesus, perceiving their malicious intent, responds by asking them to show him the *tax money* (tò nómisma toû kḗnsou).
The significance of nómisma in this context is pivotal. By requesting to see the coin, Jesus directs attention to the very instrument of the tax payment. The coin, a nómisma, bears Caesar's image and inscription, thereby representing the established authority under which they operate and whose currency they utilize. Jesus' subsequent question, "Whose image and inscription is this?" ([[Matthew 22:20]]), compels His interrogators to acknowledge the source of the coin's authority. His famous response, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" ([[Matthew 22:21]]), directly links the nómisma to the concept of civil obligation and, by contrast, to divine sovereignty. The nómisma thus becomes a tangible symbol of earthly authority and its demands upon individuals.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **nomízō (`{{G3549}}`):** As the verb from which nómisma derives, nomízō ("to think, suppose, deem lawful, or customary") underscores that money, as nómisma, is not merely a physical object but something whose value and acceptance are *established* and *recognized* by societal convention or law.
* **kēnsos (`{{G2778}}`):** This term refers to the "tax" or "tribute" mentioned in [[Matthew 22:19]]. nómisma is the specific *medium* by which this tax is paid, establishing an intimate link between the obligation and the means of fulfilling it.
* **Specific Currency Denominations:** While nómisma is a general term for "coin" or "money," the New Testament also mentions specific units of currency such as drachmē (`{{G1406}}`), denarion (`{{G1220}}`), didrachmon (`{{G1367}}`), and stater (`{{G4715}}`). nómisma functions as the generic category under which these specific coins fall.
* **eikōn (`{{G1504}}`) and epigraphē (`{{G1923}}`):** These words, meaning "image" and "inscription," respectively, are the defining characteristics of the nómisma that Jesus points to. They reveal the source of authority behind the currency and, by extension, the civil realm.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of nómisma in [[Matthew 22:19]] serves as a profound theological touchstone. The coin, bearing Caesar's image, symbolizes the legitimate, albeit limited, authority of earthly rulers. Jesus' teaching, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's," establishes a foundational principle for Christian engagement with civil government. It acknowledges the temporal demands of earthly powers while simultaneously asserting the preeminence of divine authority.
Implicit in this exchange is a contrast between the image on the nómisma and the image of God. While the coin bears Caesar's likeness, humanity itself is created in God's image ([[Genesis 1:26-27]]). This contrast underscores that while temporal obligations exist concerning earthly currency and rulers, ultimate allegiance and the "rendering" of one's being are due to God, who has stamped His divine image on humanity. The nómisma thus serves as a reminder of our dual citizenship – in the earthly realm and, more significantly, in the Kingdom of God.
Furthermore, the discussion surrounding the nómisma implicitly touches upon the believer's relationship to material wealth. While money is a necessary tool for earthly transactions and fulfilling civic duties, its ultimate purpose and true value are subservient to God's will and kingdom. It is a reminder that all possessions, including nómisma, ultimately belong to God and are to be stewarded in ways that honor Him.
### Summary
The Greek word nómisma (`{{G3546}}`) denotes "current coin" or "money," rooted in the concept of something established or recognized as valuable. Its sole appearance in the New Testament in [[Matthew 22:19]] is exceptionally significant. In the context of Jesus' interaction with the Pharisees and Herodians, the nómisma bearing Caesar's image becomes the central element for His profound teaching on the intricate relationship between civil obligation and divine allegiance. Theologically, nómisma functions as a tangible symbol of earthly authority, prompting believers to reflect on their dual responsibilities to human government and, preeminently, to God. It highlights the distinction between the transient value of earthly currency and the eternal value of that which bears God's image, thereby underscoring vital principles of stewardship and ultimate divine sovereignty.
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