neuter of a presumed derivative of ἄργυρος; silvery, i.e. (by implication) cash; specially, a silverling (i.e. drachma or shekel):--money, (piece of) silver (piece).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀργύριον (argýrion, `{{G694}}`) is a neuter noun derived from ἄργυρος (argyros, `{{G696}}`), which means "silver" (the metal). Consequently, ἀργύριον fundamentally signifies "something silvery." By extension and common usage, its primary meaning in the New Testament refers to "cash" or "money," specifically in the form of silver coinage. It can denote money in a general sense, or more precisely, a specific "piece of silver," such as a drachma or a shekel, functioning as a unit of currency. Its semantic range thus encompasses the physical metal silver, silver coins as a medium of exchange, and wealth or monetary value generally.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ἀργύριον appears frequently in the New Testament, often with significant contextual implications:
* **The Betrayal of Jesus:** Perhaps the most poignant use is in the account of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver" ([[Matthew 26:15]], [[Matthew 27:3]], [[Matthew 27:5]], [[Matthew 27:6]], [[Matthew 27:9]]). Here, ἀργύριον refers to specific coins, likely shekels, fulfilling the prophecy in [[Zechariah 11:12-13]]. The subsequent use of this "blood money" to purchase the potter's field ([[Matthew 27:7]]) further underscores its tainted nature.
* **Parable of the Lost Coin:** In the parable of the lost drachma, a woman diligently searches for one of her ten "pieces of silver" ([[Luke 15:8]]). Here, ἀργύριον clearly denotes a specific coin (a drachma), highlighting its personal value to the owner and the joy of its recovery.
* **General Money/Wealth:** The term is also used more broadly to refer to money or wealth. Simon Magus attempts to buy the ability to impart the Holy Spirit with "money" ([[Acts 8:20]]), illustrating the futility of material wealth in spiritual matters. Similarly, the value of the magic books burned by new believers in Ephesus is calculated in "pieces of silver" ([[Acts 19:19]]), indicating a large sum of money.
* **Contrast with Spiritual Riches:** Peter declares to the lame man at the temple gate, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you" ([[Acts 3:6]]), powerfully contrasting material possessions with the transformative power of divine healing.
### Related Words & Concepts
ἀργύριον is deeply connected to a network of words describing currency, wealth, and value:
* ἄργυρος (argyros, `{{G696}}`): The base word for "silver" (the metal itself), from which ἀργύριον is derived.
* χρυσίον (chrysion, `{{G5553}}`): "Gold," often paired with silver as a precious metal and form of wealth (e.g., [[1 Peter 1:18]]).
* δηνάριον (denarion, `{{G1220}}`): A Roman silver coin, often representing a day's wage (e.g., [[Matthew 20:2]]).
* δραχμή (drachmē, `{{G1406}}`): A Greek silver coin, often equivalent to a denarius, specifically mentioned in the parable of the lost coin ([[Luke 15:8]]).
* μνᾶ (mna, `{{G3414}}`) and τάλαντον (talanton, `{{G5007}}`): Larger units of monetary value, used in parables to discuss stewardship and accountability (e.g., [[Luke 19:13]], [[Matthew 25:15]]).
* The concept of "mammon" (`{{G3126}}`) as a personification of wealth, often contrasted with serving God (e.g., [[Matthew 6:24]]).
* The broader themes of earthly possessions, stewardship, bribery, and the pursuit of material gain versus spiritual enrichment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀργύριον is profound, particularly in its association with the betrayal of Jesus. The "thirty pieces of silver" serve as an enduring symbol of the price of treachery and the cheapness with which the Son of God was valued by those who rejected Him. This transaction fulfills ancient prophecy, highlighting divine sovereignty even amidst human sin. The subsequent rejection of this "blood money" by Judas and its use to purchase the "Potter's Field" ([[Matthew 27:7]]) underscores its defilement and inability to bring true redemption.
Beyond the betrayal, ἀργύριον also contributes to New Testament teachings on value and stewardship. In the parable of the lost coin, the diligent search for the lost drachma illustrates God's fervent desire for the salvation of every individual, emphasizing the immeasurable worth of each soul in His sight. Conversely, the narrative of Simon Magus attempting to buy spiritual power with "money" ([[Acts 8:20]]) serves as a stark warning against simony and the inherent inability of material wealth to purchase divine grace or spiritual gifts.
Ultimately, ἀργύριον frequently serves as a tangible representation of earthly value, often contrasted with the enduring and immeasurable worth of spiritual realities. The New Testament consistently prioritizes heavenly treasures over fleeting earthly possessions, reminding believers that true riches are found not in silver or gold, but in Christ and His eternal kingdom.
### Summary
The Greek term ἀργύριον (argýrion, `{{G694}}`) primarily denotes "silver" as a metal and, more commonly, "silver coinage" or "money" in general. Its New Testament usage is varied, ranging from specific units of currency like the drachma in the parable of the lost coin to the general concept of wealth. Most significantly, ἀργύριον is indelibly linked to the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot for "thirty pieces of silver," serving as a potent symbol of treachery and the material valuation of the divine. Theologically, it highlights the prophetic fulfillment, the sanctity of spiritual gifts over material acquisition, and the contrast between temporal earthly wealth and eternal spiritual riches. ἀργύριον thus functions as a powerful linguistic marker for themes of value, stewardship, and the profound difference between the world's economy and God's economy of grace.
TRV