### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G4002}}` (πέντε, *pénte*) is a primary cardinal number, meaning "five." Its core semantic range is strictly numerical, denoting a quantity of five units. Unlike some numbers in biblical thought that carry inherent symbolic weight in their very form (e.g., `{{G2033}}` for three, `{{G2033}}` for completion; `{{G2033}}` for seven, `{{G2033}}` for perfection), `{{G4002}}` primarily functions as a straightforward quantifier. However, its occurrences within biblical narratives often lend themselves to deeper theological interpretations, drawing out associations that transcend mere enumeration. In broader biblical numerology, "five" is frequently linked to concepts of grace, divine favor, and human responsibility, often appearing in contexts related to God's provision or humanity's stewardship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G4002}}` appears numerous times in the New Testament, frequently in contexts that highlight its numerical significance while also hinting at deeper truths.
One prominent set of occurrences relates to the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. In the accounts of this event, Jesus takes "five barley loaves" (`{{G740}}` `{{G4002}}` `{{G740}}`) and miraculously multiplies them to feed a vast multitude ([[Matthew 14:17]], [[Mark 6:38]], [[Luke 9:13]], [[John 6:9]]). Here, `{{G4002}}` underscores the initial insufficiency of human resources in contrast to the boundless sufficiency of divine power and provision. The small number of loaves emphasizes the magnitude of the miracle.
In the parable of the ten virgins, five are wise and five are foolish ([[Matthew 25:2]]). The number `{{G4002}}` here divides the group, highlighting the critical distinction between preparedness and negligence in anticipation of the bridegroom's arrival. Similarly, in the parable of the talents, one servant receives five talents (`{{G4002}}` `{{G5007}}`) ([[Matthew 25:15]]), demonstrating a significant endowment and the expectation of diligent stewardship and fruitful investment.
Other notable instances include:
* The Samaritan woman's "five husbands" ([[John 4:18]]), a literal count revealing the complexity of her past and setting the stage for Jesus' revelation.
* The "five porches" at the Pool of Bethesda ([[John 5:2]]), a descriptive detail of the architectural setting, though some have sought symbolic connections to the five books of the Law.
* The five sparrows sold for two pennies ([[Luke 12:6]]), used by Jesus to illustrate God's meticulous care even for the seemingly insignificant, underscoring that none are forgotten by Him.
* The rich man in Hades pleading for his "five brothers" ([[Luke 16:28]]), a literal family count within a parable emphasizing the urgency of repentance and warning.
Across these contexts, while `{{G4002}}` remains a simple number, its strategic placement often serves to amplify the narrative's theological or moral message, whether concerning divine provision, human responsibility, or divine oversight.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a cardinal number, `{{G4002}}` relates directly to other numerical terms in the Greek New Testament, such as `{{G1520}}` (one), `{{G1411}}` (two), `{{G5140}}` (three), `{{G5064}}` (four), `{{G1840}}` (six), `{{G2033}}` (seven), `{{G1756}}` (ten), and larger quantities like `{{G1042}}` (hundred) and `{{G5505}}` (thousand).
Beyond direct numerical counterparts, `{{G4002}}` is conceptually linked to:
* **The Pentateuch:** Although the term "Pentateuch" (meaning "five books") is a later designation, the first five books of the Old Testament (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) form the foundational Law given by God to Moses. This collection of five books is central to Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God, and the number five is thus implicitly connected to the divine instruction and covenant.
* **Divine Provision:** As seen in the feeding miracles, `{{G4002}}` is associated with God's ability to provide abundantly from meager beginnings, often linked to grace and unmerited favor.
* **Human Responsibility and Stewardship:** The parables involving talents and virgins underscore that the number five can delineate categories of human accountability, preparedness, and the wise use of entrusted resources.
* **Symbolic Numerology:** While not explicitly defined as such in the text, "five" in biblical thought is often considered a number of grace, representing God's unmerited favor (e.g., the five offerings in Leviticus, the five fingers on a hand symbolizing human capacity for work or reception of grace).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4002}}` emerges not from an intrinsic mystical quality of the number itself, but from the contexts in which it appears.
Firstly, `{{G4002}}` frequently highlights **divine sufficiency and boundless grace**. The five loaves, utterly inadequate by human standards, become more than enough in the hands of Christ. This illustrates God's capacity to multiply blessings and provide beyond human imagination, often in response to faith and obedience. It speaks to the abundant provision of God in the face of human limitation.
Secondly, `{{G4002}}` underscores **human accountability and the imperative of preparedness**. The five foolish virgins and the servant with five talents serve as stark reminders that God entrusts resources and expects diligence and readiness. The number emphasizes a distinct category of individuals who either fulfill or fail their responsibilities, making the consequences clear. This points to the ethical dimension of faith and the call to stewardship.
Thirdly, the subtle connection to the **Pentateuch** grounds the number in the concept of divine law and foundational revelation. The five books of Moses serve as the bedrock of God's covenant with Israel, outlining His character, His commands, and His redemptive plan. Thus, `{{G4002}}` can implicitly evoke themes of divine instruction, covenant faithfulness, and the principles upon which God's relationship with humanity is built.
Finally, in a broader sense, the repeated appearance of `{{G4002}}` in contexts of divine oversight (e.g., sparrows) reinforces the **meticulous care and knowledge of God** over all creation, from the grandest miracles to the smallest details of life.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G4002}}` (πέντε, *pénte*) means "five" and functions primarily as a cardinal number. While its core meaning is simple enumeration, its occurrences in the New Testament are rich with theological implications. `{{G4002}}` is notably used in accounts of divine provision, such as the feeding of the five thousand ([[Matthew 14:17]]), where it emphasizes God's boundless sufficiency and grace in multiplying meager resources. It also appears in parables to delineate categories of human responsibility and preparedness, as seen with the five wise and five foolish virgins ([[Matthew 25:2]]) and the servant entrusted with five talents ([[Matthew 25:15]]). Conceptually, `{{G4002}}` is linked to other numbers and, by extension, to the foundational five books of the Pentateuch, suggesting a connection to divine law and covenant. Ultimately, the presence of `{{G4002}}` in biblical narratives often serves to highlight profound truths about God's character (His provision, care, and expectations) and humanity's response to His divine will.
TRV