### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **triákonta**, represented by `{{G5144}}`, is the numerical term for **thirty**. It appears 11 times in 11 unique verses in the Bible. While its base definition is a simple quantity, its application in scripture gives it specific significance in contexts of agricultural yield, monetary value, and spans of time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G5144}}` is used to quantify key details. In the Parable of the Sower, it represents a successful, though not the largest, harvest from good ground, where seed brings forth fruit "some **thirty**fold" ([[Matthew 13:8]], [[Mark 4:8]]). The number is critically associated with the betrayal of Jesus, as Judas covenanted with the chief priests for "**thirty** pieces of silver" [[Matthew 26:15]], a sum that was later returned in remorse [[Matthew 27:3]]. The term also marks significant moments in time, such as Jesus beginning his ministry at "about **thirty** years of age" [[Luke 3:23]] and a man's infirmity lasting "thirty and eight years" [[John 5:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the quantities and concepts associated with `{{G5144}}`:
* `{{G1835}}` **hexḗkonta** (sixty): This number appears alongside **thirty** in the Parable of the Sower, designating a greater level of fruitfulness from the good ground [[Matthew 13:23]].
* `{{G1540}}` **hekatón** (a hundred): Also used in the parable, this term marks the highest possible yield, showing a scale of blessing where **thirty** is the starting point [[Mark 4:20]].
* `{{G694}}` **argýrion** (piece of silver): This word specifies the currency used in the betrayal of Jesus, clarifying that the payment was "**thirty** pieces of silver" [[Matthew 27:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5144}}` is tied to its specific uses in the New Testament.
* **Price of Betrayal:** The number **thirty** is permanently marked by its connection to the "**thirty** pieces of silver," the price paid to Judas to betray Jesus [[Matthew 26:15]]. This fulfills a prophecy and underscores the value assigned to the Messiah by His enemies [[Matthew 27:9]].
* **Measure of Fruitfulness:** In Jesus' parable, a yield of **thirty**fold from seed sown on good ground establishes a baseline for productive faith. It signifies a genuine, positive result of hearing and understanding the word of God [[Matthew 13:23]].
* **Commencement of Ministry:** The note that Jesus was "about **thirty** years of age" when he began his ministry is a significant chronological marker, indicating his readiness and the formal start of his public work [[Luke 3:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5144}}` functions as more than a simple number. It is a specific quantity that scripture imbues with deep meaning. It serves as a benchmark for spiritual fruitfulness, a somber reminder of the price of betrayal, and a historical marker for the beginning of Jesus' redemptive work. The use of **thirty** illustrates how even a numerical detail can carry significant theological importance within the biblical narrative.
TRV