The Greek word chalkíon, represented by G5473, refers to a brazen vessel or a copper dish. Its definition indicates it is a diminutive from the word for copper. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, where it denotes a specific type of household item involved in ceremonial practices.
The sole appearance of G5473 is in a list of items subject to traditional washings. The context in Mark 7:4 describes how, after coming from G575 the market G58, some would not G3756 eat G2068 except G3362 they first performed a ritual cleansing. The brazen vessel is mentioned as one of many G4183 other G243 things that they had received G3880 to hold G2902 as part of this tradition, which included the washing G909 of cups G4221, pots G3582, and tables G2825.
Several related words clarify the context of this ceremonial act:
- G909 baptismós (washing): This term for ceremonial ablution is the central action applied to the brazen vessel and the other items listed. It is distinguished as a tradition received and held by men (Mark 7:4, Mark 7:8).
- G3582 xéstēs (pot): A type of vessel mentioned immediately before brazen vessels. The washing of pots and cups is explicitly identified as part of "the tradition of men" Mark 7:8.
- G4221 potḗrion (cup): This word for a drinking-vessel or cup is the first in the list of items requiring ritual washing G909, setting the pattern for objects like the brazen vessel Mark 7:4.
The theological weight of G5473 is found exclusively in its singular context, which critiques the elevation of human tradition over divine commands.
- Ceremonial Purity: The brazen vessel is an example of an everyday object subjected to ritual washing G909 as part of a focus on external cleanliness Mark 7:4.
- Human Tradition vs. Divine Command: The passage contrasts these received practices, such as the washing of pots G3582 and cups G4221, with the commandments of God, showing how human traditions can be held while laying aside God's law Mark 7:8.
- External Rituals: The emphasis on washing physical items like a brazen vessel highlights a concern with outward appearances, which stands in contrast to the inner condition of the heart Mark 7:6.
In summary, G5473 is a simple term for a brazen vessel. Its importance in Scripture comes not from the object itself but from its singular use in Mark 7:4 as an illustration. It is part of a list of items that were ritually washed according to human tradition, serving to underscore the New Testament's focus on internal purity over external ceremonies.
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