The Greek word triakósioi, represented by G5145, is a plural term for the number three hundred. It is formed from the words for three and one hundred. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible, where its function is to specify a precise and significant monetary value.
In its biblical appearances, G5145 is used to quantify the high price of an expensive ointment. In the Gospel of John, the question is posed, "Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?" John 12:5. A similar account in Mark notes that the ointment "might have been sold for more than three hundred pence" Mark 14:5. In both instances, the number establishes the substantial financial worth of the offering, framing the subsequent debate about its use.
Several related words provide context for the use of G5145:
- G1220 dēnárion (pence, penny(-worth)): This is the unit of currency. The value of the ointment is specifically set at three hundred of these coins, highlighting its great cost John 12:5.
- G3464 mýron (ointment): This is the valuable substance itself. The entire discussion revolves around the proper use of this perfumed oil John 12:5.
- G4097 pipráskō (sell): This verb describes the action that objectors believed should have been taken. They argued the ointment ought to have been sold rather than used for anointing Mark 14:5.
- G4434 ptōchós (poor): This identifies the group who, it was argued, should have received the proceeds from selling the ointment (Mark 14:5, John 12:5).
The theological weight of G5145 is derived entirely from the context of Jesus' anointing.
- Extravagant Worship: The specific value of three hundred pence establishes the act of anointing as one of extravagant and costly devotion, far beyond a token gesture.
- Value of Christ: The high price of the ointment G3464 used to honor Jesus serves as a symbol of His immense worth. The costliness of the gift reflects the perceived value of its recipient.
- Tension in Stewardship: The mention of this large sum frames a conflict between practical charity to the poor G4434 and a personal act of worship, a tension that is a recurring theme in scripture John 12:5.
In summary, G5145 is a simple number, three hundred, that plays a crucial role in one of the most poignant scenes in the Gospels. It provides a concrete measure for an act of profound devotion, transforming a financial figure into a powerful statement about sacrifice, worship, and the pricelessness of Christ. The word demonstrates how a specific detail can add significant depth and meaning to a biblical narrative.
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