### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word `{{G4004}}` (πεντήκοντα, *pentḗkonta*) is a cardinal numeral meaning "fifty." It is derived from `{{G4002}}` (πέντε, *pente*), meaning "five," combined with a suffix indicating multiplication. As a numerical adjective, its semantic range is singularly focused on denoting the quantity of fifty, whether referring to a count of individuals, a sum of money, or a measure of time. Its literal and figurative meanings are tightly interwoven, with its theological significance often stemming from the events or periods it quantifies rather than an inherent symbolic meaning of the number itself, though connections to Old Testament numerology are often explored.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{G4004}}` appears in several significant contexts within the New Testament:
* **Order and Organization:** In the accounts of Jesus feeding the five thousand, the disciples are instructed to seat the crowds in groups of "fifties" (and hundreds). This is seen in [[Mark 6:40]] and [[Luke 9:14]]. This instruction highlights Jesus' divine order, the systematic nature of God's provision, and the manageability of a large multitude under divine guidance. It speaks to a structured approach to ministry and care.
* **Financial Parable:** In the parable of the two debtors, one owed five hundred denarii and the other "fifty" denarii [[Luke 7:41]]. Here, `{{G4004}}` functions as a straightforward numerical quantity, emphasizing the relative difference in debt and the magnitude of forgiveness.
* **Age Reference:** During a confrontation with Jesus, the Jews challenge His claims by stating, "You are not yet fifty years old" [[John 8:57]]. This is a direct numerical reference to age, underscoring the perceived discrepancy between Jesus' physical appearance and His claims of pre-existence.
* **The Day of Pentecost:** Most profoundly, `{{G4004}}` is the root of the word πεντηκοστή (*pentēkostē*), meaning "fiftieth," which designates the Day of Pentecost. This day, occurring "fifty" days after Passover, is pivotal in the New Testament narrative. It is mentioned in [[Acts 2:1]], [[Acts 20:16]], and [[1 Corinthians 16:8]]. The significance of this specific timing is central to its theological weight.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{G4005}}` (πεντηκοστή, *pentēkostē*), which is derived from `{{G4004}}` and specifically refers to the Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost. This connection is paramount for understanding the theological depth of `{{G4004}}`. Other related concepts include:
* **Numbers:** As a cardinal number, `{{G4004}}` relates to the broader biblical use of numbers, which can sometimes carry symbolic weight (e.g., seven for completion, twelve for divine government).
* **Feasts of Israel:** The Old Testament Feast of Weeks (Shavuot), which Pentecost fulfills, is a crucial background. This feast, occurring 50 days after the Passover, commemorated the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai.
* **Jubilee Year:** In the Old Testament, the Jubilee year occurred every 50th year, following seven cycles of seven years (`{{H7651}}` - *shabua*). This year was marked by liberation, restoration of land, and freeing of slaves (cf. [[Leviticus 25:10]]). While not directly referenced with `{{G4004}}` in the New Testament, the symbolic resonance of "fifty" with liberation and new beginnings is often noted in theological reflection on Pentecost.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4004}}` is overwhelmingly concentrated in its association with the Day of Pentecost.
1. **Divine Timing and Fulfillment:** The precise timing of the Holy Spirit's outpouring on the "fiftieth" day after Christ's resurrection signifies God's perfect plan and the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. Just as the Law was given on Sinai 50 days after the Exodus, so the Spirit, the "Law written on hearts," was given 50 days after the new Exodus effected by Christ.
2. **Birth of the Church:** Pentecost marks the definitive birth of the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit for its global mission. The events of [[Acts 2:1-4]] demonstrate the Spirit's enabling for witness and the reversal of the linguistic confusion at Babel (cf. [[Genesis 11:1-9]]), as people from diverse nations hear the gospel in their own languages.
3. **New Covenant and Empowerment:** The giving of the Spirit signifies the inauguration of the New Covenant, where believers are indwelt by God's presence, rather than relying solely on an external law. This empowerment enables believers to live according to God's will and to effectively spread the gospel.
4. **Echoes of Jubilee and Liberation:** While not explicitly stated, the numerical connection to the Jubilee year (the 50th year of liberation and restoration in the Old Testament) adds a layer of theological depth. The outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost brings liberation from sin and death, restoration of relationship with God, and a new inheritance in Christ, resonating with the themes of the Jubilee.
5. **Order and Provision:** In the context of the feeding miracles, the grouping into "fifties" underscores Jesus' orderly provision and His capacity to manage and care for His people systematically, even in vast numbers.
### Summary
The Greek word `{{G4004}}` (πεντήκοντα, *pentḗkonta*) denotes the cardinal number "fifty." While its primary meaning is numerical, its most profound theological significance is derived from its association with the **Day of Pentecost**, the "fiftieth" day after Passover/Resurrection. This day marks the climactic outpouring of the Holy Spirit, signifying the birth of the Church, the inauguration of the New Covenant, and the divine empowerment for mission. Furthermore, its use in describing orderly groupings during the feeding miracles highlights divine order and systematic provision. The number 50, particularly in the context of Pentecost, resonates with Old Testament themes of divine timing, new beginnings, and liberation, echoing the Jubilee year and the giving of the Law at Sinai. Thus, `{{G4004}}` points to God's precise timing, His orderly nature, and the transformative power of His Spirit.
TRV