The Greek word choînix, represented by G5518, is defined as a chœnix or certain dry measure. Though its derivation is uncertain, its biblical application is highly specific. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, where it serves as a unit for measuring dry goods like grain.
The sole biblical appearance of G5518 is in the apocalyptic vision of Revelation. A voice from among the four beasts declares, "A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny" Revelation 6:6. In this context, the measure signifies a time of extreme scarcity and economic hardship, where a single measure of a basic foodstuff costs a full day's wage. The verse also commands that the oil and wine not be hurt, creating a stark contrast between staple grains and other goods.
Several related words provide essential context for the use of choînix:
- G1220 dēnárion (of Latin origin; a denarius (or ten asses):--pence, penny(-worth)): This is the price assigned to the measure of wheat. Context from elsewhere shows a denarius was a standard day's wage for a laborer Matthew 20:2.
- G2915 krithḗ (of uncertain derivation; barley:--barley): This is the less valuable grain being measured, with three measures of barley costing the same as one of wheat Revelation 6:6.
- G4621 sîtos (of uncertain derivation; grain, especially wheat:--corn, wheat): This represents the primary staple food. Its high price per measure in Revelation underscores the severity of the famine described Revelation 6:6.
The theological weight of G5518 is derived entirely from its single, powerful context in scripture.
- Symbol of Famine and Scarcity: The word is used to quantify the effects of divine judgment. The proclamation that a small measure of wheat will cost a denarius indicates a devastating famine where basic survival requires a full day's work.
- Instrument of Judgment: Occurring within the prophecy of the four horsemen, the choînix serves not just as a unit of commerce but as a metric of God's controlled judgment upon the earth.
- Economic Disparity: The high cost of a measure of wheat or barley, set against the command to "hurt not the oil and the wine" Revelation 6:6, highlights a period of severe economic imbalance where staples are scarce but luxuries are preserved.
In summary, G5518 choînix is a simple term for a dry measure that takes on immense symbolic meaning in its biblical usage. Its appearance in Revelation transforms it from a common unit of volume into a powerful emblem of famine, economic collapse, and divine judgment. This demonstrates how a technical term can be used in scripture to convey profound theological truths about the end times.
TRV