### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ogdoḗkonta**, represented by `{{G3589}}`, is a numeral that means **fourscore**. Derived from the concept of "ten times eight," it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its use in Scripture is to provide a specific numerical value, whether for age or for quantity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3589}}` is used to specify a significant number. It describes the age of a devout **widow** `{{G5503}}` who was **fourscore** `{{G3589}}` and four `{{G5064}}` **years** `{{G2094}}` old and who never departed from the **temple** `{{G2411}}` [[Luke 2:37]]. The term is also used in a parable where a debtor who owes an **hundred** `{{G1540}}` measures of wheat is told to take his **bill** `{{G1121}}` and **write** `{{G1125}}` **fourscore** `{{G3589}}`, illustrating a reduction of debt [[Luke 16:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{G3589}}` appears:
* `{{G2094}}` **étos** (year): This word for **year** is used directly with **fourscore** to quantify the long life of the faithful widow [[Luke 2:37]].
* `{{G5503}}` **chḗra** (widow): This term identifies the woman whose age is described as **fourscore** and four years. Her status as a **widow** is central to her depiction of piety and dependence on God [[Luke 2:37]].
* `{{G1121}}` **grámma** (bill, writing): In the parable of the unjust steward, this is the **bill** that is altered from one hundred to **fourscore** [[Luke 16:7]], representing a written record of debt.
### Theological Significance
The numerical value of `{{G3589}}` contributes to the narrative in specific ways:
* **Highlighting Enduring Faithfulness:** In the account of the widow in the temple, the age of **fourscore** and four years underscores a lifetime of dedicated service. Her continuous presence in the **temple** `{{G2411}}` with **fastings** `{{G3521}}` and **prayers** `{{G1162}}` is given weight by this specific, large number [[Luke 2:37]].
* **Providing Concrete Detail in Parables:** In the parable of the unjust steward, the instruction to **write** `{{G1125}}` **fourscore** `{{G3589}}` instead of an **hundred** `{{G1540}}` gives a tangible example of the steward's actions. The number serves to make the parable's lesson clear and specific [[Luke 16:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3589}}` **ogdoḗkonta** is a specific numerical term for **fourscore**. Though it appears infrequently, its function is direct and literal. It is used to quantify a great age, thereby emphasizing a life of devotion, and to specify an amount in a parable about stewardship. The word shows how precise numbers are used in Scripture to add detail and significance to a narrative.
TRV