### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **árgyros**, represented by `{{G696}}`, means **silver**, referring to the metal itself or articles and coins made from it. The name is derived from a root word meaning "shining." It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. In scripture, it consistently functions as a marker of material wealth and a substance used for crafting valuable or symbolic objects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G696}}` is frequently used to represent worldly riches and possessions. When Jesus sends out his disciples, he commands them to "Provide neither gold, nor **silver**, nor brass" in their purses, emphasizing a reliance on divine provision over material wealth [[Matthew 10:9]]. The apostle Paul uses it metaphorically in [[1 Corinthians 3:12]] to describe the quality of a person's work built upon the foundation of Christ, listing **silver** among the durable, valuable materials that can withstand testing. Conversely, James warns against hoarding wealth, declaring that cankered gold and **silver** will serve as a witness against the rich in the last days [[James 5:3]]. It is also used to denote materials for idolatry, with Paul arguing that the Godhead cannot be likened to images of **silver** or gold crafted by man [[Acts 17:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help contextualize the meaning of **árgyros** by highlighting themes of value, wealth, and materiality:
* `{{G5557}}` **chrysós** (gold): Defined as "gold; by extension, a golden article, as an ornament or coin," this word is almost always paired with **silver** to represent the highest tier of worldly riches and valuable goods [[James 5:3]].
* `{{G3037}}` **líthos** (stone): This word means "a stone (literally or figuratively)" and is often listed with **silver** as a tangible, durable substance used for either valuable construction or the crafting of idols [[Acts 17:29]].
* `{{G5475}}` **chalkós** (brass): Meaning "copper (the substance, or some implement or coin made of it):--brass, money," this term often completes a list of metals representing currency and earthly wealth [[Matthew 10:9]].
* `{{G5093}}` **tímios** (precious): Meaning "valuable... costly, or... honored," this adjective describes items like stones that appear alongside **silver**, reinforcing the theme of material worth and costliness [[1 Corinthians 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G696}}` is centered on the contrast between worldly and spiritual value.
* **Corruptible Wealth:** Scripture uses **silver** to symbolize earthly treasure that is ultimately temporary and subject to decay. James explicitly states that hoarded **silver** "is cankered" and will "eat your flesh as it were fire," illustrating the destructive and transient nature of wealth that is not used for righteous purposes [[James 5:3]].
* **The Material of Idolatry:** The use of **silver** in crafting idols highlights a fundamental theological error: attempting to represent the infinite, spiritual God with finite, man-made materials. Paul confronts this directly, stating that the Godhead is not "like unto... silver" [[Acts 17:29]].
* **Symbol of Worldly Systems:** In Revelation's depiction of the fall of Babylon, **silver** is listed as a key component of its "merchandise." This associates the metal with a global system of commerce and luxury that is under divine judgment [[Revelation 18:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G696}}` **árgyros** is more than a simple term for **silver**. While its literal meaning is straightforward, its biblical applications are rich with theological weight. It serves as a consistent symbol for material wealth, the vanity of idolatry, and the quality of human works that will ultimately be tested. Through its few appearances, **árgyros** effectively contrasts the fleeting, corruptible nature of worldly possessions with the enduring value of a life and work built on a divine foundation.
TRV