### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G5140 (τρεῖς, *treîs*) is a primary plural cardinal number, meaning "three." Its fundamental semantic range is strictly quantitative, denoting a quantity of three units. Unlike some numbers in biblical numerology that carry inherent symbolic meaning in their very definition (e.g., `{{H259}}` for "one" or `{{H7651}}` for "seven"), G5140 primarily serves as a simple numerical descriptor. However, its frequent appearance in significant biblical contexts imbues it with profound theological and symbolic resonance, often pointing to completion, divine action, or witness. It is the plural form, used for masculine and feminine nouns, with G5140 also serving as the neuter form.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G5140 appears numerous times throughout the Greek New Testament, serving various functions from simple enumeration to marking pivotal moments in salvation history.
* **Resurrection:** One of the most significant occurrences is in reference to Jesus' resurrection "on the third day" or "after three days" [[Matthew 16:21]], [[Luke 24:46]], [[1 Corinthians 15:4]]. This repeated phrase underscores the divine predetermination and fulfillment of prophecy regarding Christ's victory over death, making the "third day" a cornerstone of Christian faith.
* **Divine Manifestations/Witness:** The number three often appears in contexts involving divine revelation or confirmation. For instance, Peter, James, and John, the "three" core disciples, were present at the Transfiguration [[Matthew 17:1]] and in Gethsemane [[Matthew 26:37]]. The principle of "two or three witnesses" for establishing truth is affirmed by Jesus [[Matthew 18:16]] and Paul [[2 Corinthians 13:1]], echoing Old Testament legal requirements.
* **Significant Events:** Jesus' ministry is marked by several "three-fold" patterns: His three temptations in the wilderness [[Matthew 4:1-11]], Peter's three denials of Christ [[Matthew 26:75]], and the three hours of darkness during the crucifixion [[Matthew 27:45]]. These instances highlight moments of intense spiritual conflict, human failure, or divine judgment.
* **Parables and Teachings:** In the parable of the sower, some seeds yield "thirty, sixty, or a hundredfold" [[Matthew 13:8]], where "three" is a component of the numbers. The parable of the talents features servants receiving five, two, and one talent, with three distinct outcomes [[Matthew 25:14-30]].
* **Spiritual Gifts and Virtues:** Paul lists faith, hope, and love as the "three" enduring virtues, with love being the greatest [[1 Corinthians 13:13]]. This triad represents essential components of the Christian life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The number G5140 (three) is often understood in relation to other significant biblical numbers and concepts:
* **G1520 (εἷς, *heis* - one):** This contrasts with "three" in the sense of unity. While God is one, He is also revealed in three persons, underscoring the paradox of the Trinity.
* **G5154 (τρίτος, *tritos* - third):** This ordinal number is directly derived from G5140 and is crucial for understanding concepts like the "third day" resurrection.
* **G5151 (τρίς, *tris* - thrice):** This adverbial form signifies "three times," reinforcing the idea of repetition or completion, as seen in Peter's thrice denial or Paul's thrice pleading with the Lord `{{G2962}}` [[2 Corinthians 12:8]].
* **Biblical Numerology:** While not always explicitly symbolic, numbers in the Bible often carry weight. "Three" is frequently associated with divine completeness, revelation, and resurrection, distinct from "seven" (perfection, completeness) or "twelve" (governmental perfection, Israel).
* **Witness and Testimony:** The concept of "three" witnesses is deeply rooted in the legal and theological framework of both the Old and New Testaments, validating truth and establishing facts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of G5140 (three) is profound and multifaceted:
* **The Trinity:** Although the word G5140 itself does not explicitly define the Trinity, the concept of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is the most significant theological association with the number three. This triune nature of God is central to Christian doctrine, revealing a God who is both one and three distinct persons, co-equal and co-eternal.
* **Resurrection and Salvation:** The "third day" resurrection of Jesus Christ is the historical and theological linchpin of Christianity. It signifies God's triumph over sin and death, validating Christ's atoning work and offering hope of new life to believers. This specific timeframe underscores divine timing and fulfillment.
* **Divine Order and Completeness:** The recurring appearance of "three" in divine actions, revelations, and significant events (e.g., three major Jewish feasts, the three divisions of the Tabernacle/Temple, the three divisions of the Hebrew Bible) suggests a pattern of divine order and a sense of completion or ultimate purpose in God's dealings.
* **Confirmation and Truth:** The principle of "two or three witnesses" establishes the veracity of a claim or event. This reflects God's character as a God of truth, who provides ample testimony for His actions and words.
* **Spiritual Foundation:** The triad of faith, hope, and love in [[1 Corinthians 13:13]] represents the enduring spiritual virtues that define Christian existence and relationship with God and others.
### Summary
The Greek word G5140 (τρεῖς, *treîs*) denotes the simple cardinal number "three." While its primary meaning is quantitative, its pervasive use within the biblical narrative elevates it to a position of profound theological significance. It is most notably associated with the triune nature of God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) and the pivotal "third day" resurrection of Jesus Christ, which forms the bedrock of Christian hope and salvation. Furthermore, "three" frequently appears in contexts of divine manifestation, witness, and the completion of God's purposes, underscoring its role in revealing divine order and confirming truth throughout the sacred text.
TRV