The Greek word tókos, represented by G5110, refers to interest on money loaned, or usury. Its definition notes it as a "produce," derived from the same base as the word for childbirth. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, making its usage specific and impactful.
In scripture, G5110 appears exclusively within parables of stewardship. In the Parable of the Talents, a master rebukes his servant, stating he ought to have put the money with the exchangers to be received back with usury Matthew 25:27. A similar account in Luke has the master asking why his money was not given to the bank, so that at his coming he might have required it with usury Luke 19:23. In both instances, the word highlights the expectation of a productive return on an entrusted resource.
Several related words provide financial and contextual background to the concept of G5110:
- G694 argýrion (money, (piece of) silver (piece)): This is the capital that was to be invested. In Acts, Peter states, "Silver and gold have I none" Acts 3:6, contrasting spiritual power with this worldly resource.
- G5133 trapezítēs (a money-broker or banker:--exchanger): This refers to the financial professional the servant was expected to use. The word appears in the rebuke to the unfaithful servant for not putting the money to the exchangers Matthew 25:27.
- G5132 trápeza (a counter for money (figuratively, a broker's office for loans at interest):--bank, meat, table): In Luke's account, this is where the money should have been deposited, translated as bank Luke 19:23. It can also simply mean a table for a meal Matthew 15:27.
The theological weight of G5110 is found within its parabolic use, illustrating key principles:
- Faithful Stewardship: The expectation of receiving usury represents the Lord's desire for his servants to be fruitful with the gifts and resources He provides. Failure to produce a return is condemned Matthew 25:27.
- Accountability: The master's return to collect his money with usury signifies a time of judgment where servants must account for what they have been given Luke 19:23. All will one day receive for the things done in the body 2 Corinthians 5:10.
- The Sin of Inaction: The concept is used to highlight the wrongness of squandering opportunity. The unfaithful servant is not condemned for losing the money, but for doing nothing with it and failing to generate any usury at all.
In summary, G5110 is a specific financial term used metaphorically to convey profound spiritual truth. Though appearing only twice, its context within the parables of stewardship makes it a powerful word for understanding the biblical principles of fruitfulness, accountability, and the importance of actively using what God has given for His purposes. It teaches that faithfulness is not passive preservation, but active production.
TRV