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 **argýrion**, represented by `{{G694}}`, refers to something **silvery**, and by implication, **cash** or a piece of silver. Its specific meaning can refer to a silver coin like a drachma or shekel. It appears **20 times** across **20 unique verses**, often highlighting the role and value of money in various contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G694}}` is used in several significant ways. Most notably, it is the payment Judas receives for betraying Jesus, with the chief priests covenanting with him for "thirty pieces of **silver**" [[Matthew 26:15]]. This same amount is later returned by a repentant Judas [[Matthew 27:3]] and cast down in the temple [[Matthew 27:5]]. The term is also central to parables about stewardship, where servants are given **money** and expected to be productive with it ([[Luke 19:15]], [[Matthew 25:18]]). In other instances, it represents earthly wealth that is contrasted with spiritual power, as when Peter states, "**Silver** and gold have I none" before healing a man [[Acts 3:6]], or when disciples are instructed to take no **money** on their journey [[Luke 9:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the meaning of `{{G694}}`:
* `{{G5144}}` **triákonta** (thirty): This number is inextricably linked to `{{G694}}` in the account of Christ's betrayal, specifying the amount as "**thirty** pieces of silver" ([[Matthew 26:15]], [[Matthew 27:9]]).
* `{{G3860}}` **paradídōmi** (to surrender, i.e yield up, intrust, transmit): This verb, meaning to deliver up or betray, describes the act that Judas agrees to perform in exchange for the **money** [[Mark 14:11]].
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): The betrayal payment is ultimately defined by its horrific purpose. The chief priests refuse to put the returned silver into the treasury, stating it is "the price of **blood**" [[Matthew 27:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G694}}` is profound, often illustrating the conflict between worldly and divine values.
* **The Price of Betrayal:** The "thirty pieces of **silver**" serve as the ultimate symbol of betrayal. This amount, covenanted to Judas [[Matthew 26:15]], becomes identified as "the price of blood" [[Matthew 27:6]], a sum so defiled it cannot be returned to the temple treasury.
* **Contrast with Divine Gifts:** Scripture consistently places `{{G694}}` in a position inferior to spiritual gifts. Redemption is not achieved with **corruptible things**, such as **silver** and gold [[1 Peter 1:18]]. Peter explicitly contrasts his lack of **money** with the power he wields in Jesus' name [[Acts 3:6]], and Simon is rebuked for thinking the gift of God could be purchased with **money** [[Acts 8:20]].
* **A Test of Stewardship:** In the parables of the talents and pounds, **money** `{{G694}}` is used as a metaphor for the resources and responsibilities given by God to His servants `{{G1401}}`. The expectation is that these will be used fruitfully, and hiding one's entrusted **money** is condemned ([[Matthew 25:18]], [[Matthew 25:27]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G694}}` is more than a simple term for currency. It is a powerful biblical symbol that represents the price of the greatest betrayal in history, a measure of faithful stewardship, and a foil against which the priceless nature of divine gifts like salvation and healing are revealed. The word illustrates how a common, tangible item can carry immense symbolic and theological significance throughout the scriptures.
TRV