### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **trapetístēs**, represented by `{{G5133}}`, refers to a **money-broker or banker**. It is derived from the word for a table, where such business was conducted. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, yet its single usage anchors a significant parable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G5133}}` is in the Parable of the Talents, found in [[Matthew 25:27]]. In this verse, a master rebukes his servant for being unproductive with the money entrusted to him, stating, "Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the **exchangers**, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury." The role of the **exchangers** was to take deposited money and generate interest, highlighting a clear expectation of productive stewardship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words within its only context illuminate the meaning of this passage:
* `{{G694}}` **argýrion** (money, silver): Defined as "silvery, i.e. (by implication) cash," this word represents the resource that the servant was expected to invest [[Matthew 25:27]]. It is also used in scripture to denote things of earthly value, which cannot redeem a person [[1 Peter 1:18]].
* `{{G5110}}` **tókos** (usury): Meaning "interest on money loaned (as a produce)," this word signifies the return or fruitfulness that the master expected from his investment. Its use is directly tied to the function of the exchangers ([[Matthew 25:27]], [[Luke 19:23]]).
* `{{G1163}}` **deî** (ought, must): This word, meaning "it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)," establishes the servant's obligation. The master's use of "oughtest" frames the failure not as a simple mistake, but as a neglect of a binding duty. This same word is used for crucial spiritual necessities, such as the fulfillment of prophecy [[Luke 24:44]] and the means of salvation [[Acts 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5133}}` is derived entirely from its role in the Parable of the Talents.
* **Principle of Stewardship:** The expectation to use the **exchangers** establishes a principle of active and responsible stewardship over the resources given by God. The servant was judged for his inaction, failing to "put" `{{G906}}` the money to productive use.
* **Expectation of Fruitfulness:** The master's desire to "receive" `{{G2865}}` his money back with "usury" `{{G5110}}` illustrates that God expects a return on His investments in the lives of believers. It is not enough to simply preserve what has been given.
* **Accountability at Christ's Return:** The master's "coming" `{{G2064}}` to settle accounts points to a future day of judgment. The interaction with the **exchangers** was the standard of faithful action, and the failure to meet it resulted in condemnation, underscoring the seriousness of accountability [[2 Corinthians 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, while **trapetístēs** `{{G5133}}` is one of the rarest terms in the New Testament, its single appearance in [[Matthew 25:27]] is pivotal. As the "exchanger" or "banker," this figure represents the opportunity for productive stewardship. The word serves as a crucial element in a parable that teaches profound lessons about responsibility, fruitfulness, and the ultimate accountability believers have to God for the gifts they have been given.
TRV