### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pentḗkonta**, represented by `{{G4004}}`, is the number **fifty**. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible. As a multiplicative of πέντε, its primary role is to provide a specific numerical quantity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{G4004}}` is used to quantify various measures. It represents a smaller debt in a parable, contrasted with a larger sum [[Luke 7:41]], and is the result of a reduced bill in another [[Luke 16:6]]. The term is also used to organize large crowds, with Jesus instructing his disciples to seat the people in groups of **fifties** before the feeding of the five thousand ([[Luke 9:14]], [[Mark 6:40]]). It marks a significant period of time in Israel's history [[Acts 13:20]], establishes an age benchmark [[John 8:57]], and is part of the total count in the miraculous catch of fish [[John 21:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related numerical terms provide context for the use of **fifty**:
* `{{G4001}}` **pentakósioi** (from πέντε and ἑκατόν; five hundred:--five hundred): This word is used in the parable of the two debtors to represent the larger debt, setting a scale of comparison against the debt of **fifty** [[Luke 7:41]].
* `{{G4000}}` **pentakischílioi** (from πεντάκις and χίλιοι; five times a thousand:--five thousand): This term denotes the total number of men fed in the miracle where they were organized into groups of **fifties** [[Luke 9:14]].
* `{{G1540}}` **hekatón** (of uncertain affinity; a hundred:--hundred): This number appears alongside **fifty**, either as part of a larger sum like the 153 fish [[John 21:11]], as an alternative grouping for the crowd [[Mark 6:40]], or as the original amount of a debt before it is reduced to fifty [[Luke 16:6]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G4004}}` highlights several key themes:
* **Scale of Debt and Mercy:** The word is used in parables to establish a scale of obligation. It represents the lesser debt of two debtors [[Luke 7:41]] and the reduced amount in the parable of the unjust steward [[Luke 16:6]], underscoring themes of grace.
* **Order in Divine Provision:** When Jesus miraculously fed the multitude, the command to arrange the people in groups of **fifties** demonstrates divine order and careful administration in the midst of a miracle ([[Luke 9:14]], [[Mark 6:40]]).
* **Measurement of Time:** `{{G4004}}` serves as a marker for both human lifespan and historical periods. It is used as a point of reference for Jesus's age [[John 8:57]] and as part of a longer span of years in the history of Israel [[Acts 13:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4004}}` provides the specific numerical value of **fifty**. Though a simple number, its application in scripture is significant, bringing scale to parables about debt and mercy, illustrating order in divine miracles, and measuring both human and historical time. It functions as a precise detail that gives tangible dimension to narratives of forgiveness, provision, and history.
TRV