The Hebrew word ʼădarkôn, represented by H150, is a term of Persian origin for a dram or Persian coin. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible, both times in the context of valuable contributions for sacred purposes.
The use of H150 is specific to quantifying high-value offerings dedicated to the house of God. In 1 Chronicles, it is listed among the immense treasures given for the service H5656 of the temple, specifying "ten thousand H7239 drams" 1 Chronicles 29:7 of gold H2091. Similarly, in Ezra, the term is used to measure the worth of holy items, describing "twenty H6242 basons H3713 of gold H2091, of a thousand H505 drams" Ezra 8:27 that were set aside.
Several related words help clarify the context of wealth and measurement associated with the dram:
- H2091 zâhâb (gold): This word for gold is directly linked to H150 in both of its occurrences, indicating the material from which the coin was made and its high value (1 Chronicles 29:7, Ezra 8:27).
- H3603 kikkâr (talent): This term for a talent, a much larger unit of weight and value, appears alongside drams in the list of offerings for God's house, providing a scale for the massive contributions being made 1 Chronicles 29:7.
- H5414 nâthan (to give): This root word for give is central to the context of H150, as the drams are always mentioned as part of what was gave H5414 for the work of the temple 1 Chronicles 29:7.
The theological significance of H150 is rooted in the act of giving to God.
- Tangible Worship: The offerings of drams show that worship and devotion were expressed in concrete, valuable ways. These were not abstract pledges but tangible assets gave H5414 for the service H5656 of the house H1004 of God H430 1 Chronicles 29:7.
- Valuable Contribution: The ʼădarkôn was a gold H2091 coin. Its use in scripture highlights the principle of offering what is precious to God. The items quantified by drams are described as precious H2532 as gold H2091, reinforcing the value of the gifts Ezra 8:27.
- Support for Sacred Work: The resources, measured in part by drams, were specifically designated to support the temple and its functions. This underscores the importance of providing for the continuation of sacred service and the upkeep of God's house.
In summary, H150 ʼădarkôn provides a specific, real-world measure of wealth that illustrates the devotion of God's people. Though appearing only twice, it serves as a powerful symbol of tangible worship, the giving of valuable possessions for a holy purpose, and the material support required for the service of God's house. It connects a historical Persian coin to the timeless principle of sacrificial giving.
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