### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrysodaktýlios**, represented by `{{G5554}}`, literally means **gold-ringed**. This term is formed from the words for gold and finger-ring. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, where it describes a person wearing a golden finger-ring as an outward display of wealth and social standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G5554}}` is found in [[James 2:2]]. Here, it is used to construct a hypothetical scenario illustrating the sin of partiality. A man **with a gold ring** `{{G5554}}` and "goodly apparel" enters the Christian **assembly** `{{G4864}}`, and at the same time, a poor man in "vile raiment" also comes in. The term immediately establishes the man's wealth, setting up a contrast that reveals the congregation's potential for discriminatory judgment based on outward appearances.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help to frame its meaning:
* `{{G2986}}` **lamprós** (radiant; by analogy, limpid; figuratively, magnificent or sumptuous (in appearance):--bright, clear, gay, goodly, gorgeous, white): This adjective describes the "goodly" or magnificent apparel worn by the man with the gold ring. It is used elsewhere to describe the "gorgeous robe" Herod put on Jesus [[Luke 23:11]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (a beggar (as cringing), i.e. pauper...:--beggar(-ly), poor): This word describes the second person who enters the assembly, providing a direct contrast to the wealthy man. The term is also used in a spiritual sense, as when Jesus blesses the "poor in spirit" [[Matthew 5:3]].
* `{{G4508}}` **rhyparós** (dirty, i.e. (relatively) cheap or shabby; morally, wicked:--vile): This describes the "vile raiment" of the poor man, contrasting sharply with the "goodly apparel" of the rich man [[James 2:2]].
* `{{G4864}}` **synagōgḗ** (an assemblage of persons; specially, a Jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a Christian church:--assembly, congregation, synagogue): This is the setting for the illustration. It is a place for teaching [[Matthew 4:23]], but also one where hypocrisy can be exposed [[Matthew 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5554}}` is derived entirely from its role in this pointed illustration.
* **Symbol of Worldly Judgment:** The gold ring is presented as a symbol of the worldly criteria that must not be used within the church. The passage contrasts the man with the ring and **goodly** `{{G2986}}` apparel with a **poor man** `{{G4434}}` in **vile** `{{G4508}}` clothing [[James 2:2]].
* **A Test of Impartial Faith:** The presence of a person identified by `{{G5554}}` serves as a test for the assembly's faith. The scenario challenges believers to adhere to God's standard, which chooses the **poor** `{{G4434}}` of the world to be rich in faith, rather than favoring the wealthy [[James 2:5]].
* **Warning Against Superficiality:** This word is the catalyst for a strong warning against showing favoritism. It highlights the error of honoring someone for their external possessions rather than their intrinsic worth or spiritual state before God.
### Summary
In summary, **chrysodaktýlios** `{{G5554}}` is a highly specific term whose significance comes from its single, powerful use in Scripture. While it simply means wearing a gold ring, it functions as a potent symbol of worldly wealth. Its appearance in [[James 2:2]] launches a critical teaching on impartiality, warning believers against judging others by outward appearances and reminding them to honor the poor as God does.
TRV