### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV