### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pínax**, represented by `{{G4094}}`, is defined as a **plate**, **charger**, or **platter**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. While it refers to a common household item, its use in scripture is concentrated in two significant and contrasting contexts: a lesson on spiritual purity and the gruesome death of a prophet.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4094}}` appears first as an object of a metaphor. In Luke, Jesus uses the **platter** alongside a cup to critique the Pharisees, stating they clean the outside of the cup and the **platter**, but their inward part is full of wickedness [[Luke 11:39]]. The other four occurrences are found in the parallel accounts of the execution of John the Baptist in Matthew and Mark. In this narrative, Herodias's daughter, prompted by her mother, requests John the Baptist's head "in a **charger**" ([[Matthew 14:8]], [[Mark 6:25]]). The request is fulfilled, and the head is brought on a **charger** and given to the girl ([[Matthew 14:11]], [[Mark 6:28]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of `{{G4094}}`, particularly in its metaphorical sense:
* `{{G1855}}` **éxōthen** (external(-ly)): This word for **outside** is used in direct connection with the **platter** to describe the superficial cleanliness of the Pharisees, who clean "the **outside** of the cup and the platter" [[Luke 11:39]].
* `{{G2081}}` **ésōthen** (from inside): This term provides the critical contrast in Jesus's lesson. While the outside of the platter is clean, the "inward part" of the Pharisees is corrupt [[Luke 11:39]].
* `{{G4221}}` **potḗrion** (a drinking-vessel): This word for **cup** is paired directly with **platter** in Luke's account, representing the complete set of tableware that the Pharisees meticulously clean for outward appearance [[Luke 11:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4094}}` is derived from its two distinct scriptural applications.
* **Symbol of Spiritual Hypocrisy:** The **platter** serves as a key element in Jesus's rebuke of the Pharisees. It represents a focus on external, ceremonial purity while neglecting the far more important state of one's inner self. It highlights the theme that God is concerned with the heart, not just outward actions [[Luke 11:39]].
* **Vessel of Sinful Demand:** The **charger** is transformed from a mundane object into an instrument of malice and death in the story of John the Baptist. It becomes the platter on which the consequence of Herod's foolish oath and Herodias's vengeful hatred is served, starkly illustrating the grim reality of human sin ([[Matthew 14:8]], [[Mark 6:25]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4094}}` demonstrates how an ordinary word for a **platter** or **charger** can carry significant weight. It is used both metaphorically to teach a timeless spiritual lesson about inner versus outer righteousness, and literally to describe the shocking and violent end of John the Baptist. Through these accounts, a simple piece of tableware becomes a powerful symbol of both religious hypocrisy and the dark fulfillment of human wickedness.
TRV