### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἄργυρος (árgyros), Strong's `{{G696}}`, refers to "silver," a precious metal. Its etymological root is connected to the concept of "shining" or "being bright," reflecting the inherent lustrous quality of the metal. This base meaning extends to its practical applications: the raw metallic element, articles fashioned from silver (such as vessels or ornaments), and, significantly, silver coinage used as a medium of exchange. Thus, its semantic range encompasses not merely the chemical element but also its pervasive role in human commerce, wealth, and craftsmanship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἄργυρος (árgyros) and its related forms appear in the New Testament, primarily highlighting its function as a valuable commodity or currency. A pivotal instance is found in the narrative of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus. While the text often uses ἀργύριον (argyrios, `{{G694}}`), the diminutive form meaning "silver coin" or "money," the underlying material is ἄργυρος (árgyros). Judas agrees to betray Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver" ([[Matthew 26:15]]), and later, filled with remorse, returns these "thirty pieces of silver" ([[Matthew 27:3]]) to the chief priests, casting them down in the temple ([[Matthew 27:5]]). The priests then use this "silver" (ἀργύρια) to purchase the potter's field ([[Matthew 27:6]], [[Matthew 27:9]]). Here, the material ἄργυρος (árgyros) underscores the tangible nature of the betrayal's price and its subsequent repurposing.
Another significant occurrence is in Ephesus, where Demetrius, a silversmith (ἀργυροκόπος - a worker of silver, derived from ἄργυρος), incites a riot. His trade of making silver shrines for Artemis was threatened by Paul's Gospel preaching ([[Acts 19:24]]). This context reveals silver's use in crafting idolatrous objects and the economic impact of the Gospel's challenge to pagan worship. Although Peter declares, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you" ([[Acts 3:6]]), the Greek word for "silver" here is ἀργύριον (argyrios, `{{G694}}`), emphasizing money. Nevertheless, the underlying material is ἄργυρος (árgyros), reinforcing its fundamental association with material wealth.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to ἄργυρος (árgyros) is ἀργύριον (argyrios, `{{G694}}`), its diminutive form, specifically referring to "silver coin" or "money." This connection highlights how the metal itself became synonymous with currency. Other related concepts and words include:
* χρυσός (chrysos, `{{G5553}}`): "gold," the other primary precious metal, frequently paired with silver to denote great wealth or value, as seen in the phrase "silver and gold" ([[Acts 3:6]]).
* πλοῦτος (ploutos, `{{G4149}}`): "wealth" or "riches," a broader term for material possessions, of which silver is a significant component.
* χρήματα (chremata, `{{G5536}}`): "money" or "possessions," often acquired through financial transactions involving silver or other currency.
* φιλαργυρία (philargyria, `{{G5365}}`): "love of money," a compound word directly derived from ἄργυρος (árgyros), illustrating the negative spiritual connotation associated with an excessive desire for material wealth.
The concepts of "purchase," "redemption," and "value" are also intrinsically linked, as silver often served as the medium of exchange for such transactions in the ancient world.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἄργυρος (árgyros) is profound and multifaceted. Primarily, it serves as a powerful symbol of earthly wealth, material value, and temporal possessions. In the New Testament, it frequently stands in stark contrast to spiritual riches and eternal treasures. The "thirty pieces of silver" paid to Judas for the betrayal of Christ ([[Matthew 26:15]]) represent one of the most chilling instances of spiritual degradation and the corrupting power of avarice. This act inextricably links silver with the price of treachery and the rejection of divine truth for fleeting material gain.
Furthermore, the incident involving Demetrius the silversmith in Ephesus ([[Acts 19:24]]) illustrates how material gain, especially when derived from idolatry, can become a direct impediment to the advancement of the Gospel. When fashioned into idols, silver becomes an instrument of false worship, highlighting the perennial tension between serving God and serving mammon. While silver, as a created substance, is inherently neutral, its misuse or ultimate pursuit can lead individuals away from divine truth. The New Testament consistently warns against the "love of money" (e.g., [[1 Timothy 6:10]], using φιλαργυρία, `{{G5365}}`), of which silver is a prime representation. Unlike gold, which in the Old Testament sometimes symbolizes divine glory or purity (e.g., in the tabernacle), silver in the New Testament often carries a more ambiguous or even negative connotation, particularly in its role as currency or an object of covetous desire.
### Summary
The Greek word ἄργυρος (árgyros, `{{G696}}`) fundamentally denotes "silver," a shining metal used for crafting articles and, most significantly, as coinage. Its New Testament occurrences consistently highlight its role as a tangible representation of earthly wealth and material value. The most striking theological implication stems from its direct association with Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver," thereby indelibly linking this metal with the cost of spiritual treachery and the perilous nature of covetousness. While silver is a created good, its pursuit or misuse can become a formidable obstacle to spiritual truth and a tool for idolatry, standing in stark contrast to the eternal, incorruptible riches found in Christ.
TRV