### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term βάτος (bátos, `{{G943}}`) refers to a specific unit of liquid measure. Its etymology is explicitly stated as being of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew word בַּת (bath). In the ancient world, the bath was a standard measure, primarily for liquids such as oil and wine. While the precise modern equivalent varied historically and regionally, it generally represented a significant volume, often estimated to be around 8-9 gallons (approximately 35-40 liters). The core meaning of βάτος, therefore, denotes a fixed and substantial quantity, serving as a practical standard in commercial and domestic contexts for the measurement of fluids. Its semantic range is narrow, strictly adhering to its function as a volumetric unit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term βάτος (bátos, `{{G943}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 16:6]]**: "And he said, 'How much do you owe my master?' He said, 'A hundred measures of oil.' And he said to him, 'Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.'"
This occurrence is within the Parable of the Dishonest Manager. Here, the manager, facing dismissal, shrewdly reduces the debts of his master's debtors to gain favor. The "hundred measures of oil" (ἑκατὸν βάτους ἐλαίου) represents a considerable amount, highlighting the scale of the debt and the manager's bold action. The context is purely economic and practical, illustrating a financial transaction involving a large quantity of a valuable commodity. The use of βάτος here underscores the realism of the parable, grounding it in the everyday commercial practices of the time, where such specific units of measure were essential for trade and accounting. The manager's manipulation of these established measures is central to his "shrewdness."
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted in its definition, βάτος (bátos, `{{G943}}`) is directly linked to the Hebrew term בַּת (bath, often transliterated as "bath"). This Hebrew unit is frequently mentioned throughout the Old Testament, particularly in contexts related to temple offerings, tithes, and general commerce. For example, it is referenced in [[1 Kings 7:26]] concerning the capacity of the "sea" in Solomon's temple, and in [[Ezekiel 45:10-14]] within regulations for just weights and measures.
Other related concepts include:
* **Units of Measure:** βάτος belongs to a broader system of biblical weights and measures, including other liquid measures like the "hin" and "log," and dry measures such as the "ephah" and "cor." Understanding βάτος requires appreciating its place within this ancient metrological system, which provided standards for economic exchange.
* **Stewardship and Economics:** The context of [[Luke 16:6]] places βάτος within a narrative concerning the management of resources, debt, and financial dealings. This theme is echoed throughout the Gospels, where Jesus often uses economic parables to teach spiritual truths about the kingdom of God.
* **Honesty in Commerce:** While the manager in the parable is dishonest, the very existence of fixed measures like βάτος implies a societal expectation of fair and consistent dealings. Biblical law frequently emphasizes the importance of honest weights and measures as a reflection of justice and righteousness (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 25:13-16]], [[Proverbs 11:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of βάτος (bátos, `{{G943}}`) is not intrinsic to the word itself, as it is a mere unit of measure. Rather, its importance lies entirely within the context of [[Luke 16:6]] and the broader theological message of the Parable of the Dishonest Manager.
1. **Stewardship of Earthly Resources:** The "hundred measures of oil" represents a significant earthly asset. The parable, by focusing on the manager's shrewd handling of this resource (even if illicitly), prompts reflection on how believers ought to use their own earthly possessions and opportunities. Jesus commends the manager's foresight and decisive action, not his dishonesty, urging "the sons of light" to be equally shrewd in preparing for their eternal future ([[Luke 16:8-9]]).
2. **Preparation for Eternity:** The reduction of the "measures of oil" serves as a vivid illustration of how temporal resources can be leveraged for eternal benefit. The manager uses his master's property to secure his future; similarly, believers are called to use their worldly wealth and influence to make friends in heaven by investing in the kingdom of God.
3. **The Nature of Wealth:** The parable implicitly acknowledges that wealth, represented by "measures of oil," is a tool. Its moral value is determined by how it is acquired and, more importantly, how it is used. The call to be "faithful in a very little" before being "faithful also in much" ([[Luke 16:10]]) applies to all resources, whether large quantities like "measures of oil" or smaller sums.
4. **Justice and Righteousness:** While the manager's actions are unjust from a human perspective, the parable prompts a deeper consideration of divine justice and the ultimate accountability for one's stewardship. The very existence of precise measures like βάτος in biblical contexts often serves as a backdrop for divine commands regarding integrity and fairness in all dealings.
### Summary
βάτος (bátos, `{{G943}}`) is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew word בַּת (bath), designating a specific unit of liquid measure, typically for oil or wine. It appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Luke 16:6]], where it refers to "one hundred measures of oil" in the Parable of the Dishonest Manager. Its contextual use highlights the practicalities of ancient commerce and the substantial nature of the debt being discussed. Theologically, βάτος serves as a concrete detail within a parable that profoundly teaches about faithful stewardship of earthly resources, the shrewd use of opportunities, and the importance of preparing for eternity by leveraging temporal wealth for spiritual purposes. Though a simple unit of measure, its presence underscores the grounded reality of Jesus' parables and their piercing insights into human nature and divine expectations.
TRV