δάνειον (daneion)
daneion
debt
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun daneion refers to a loan or debt, specifically one involving money lent with the expectation of repayment. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Matthew 18:27, within the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant. Here, it describes the massive financial obligation owed by a servant to his king, highlighting the sheer scale of the debt that was forgiven.
Etymologically, the word derives from danos, which means "a gift." This root suggests that a loan is fundamentally an act of generosity or trust extended by one person to another. The lender provides resources upfront, treating the borrower as someone worthy of support, even though repayment is anticipated. This origin adds depth to the concept, framing debt not merely as a legal burden but as a relationship built on initial grace.
In its single biblical occurrence, daneion underscores the contrast between human inability to pay and divine willingness to forgive. The king’s cancellation of this immense loan serves as a powerful image for spiritual redemption. By focusing on the act of lending as a gift-like gesture, the text invites reflection on how those who receive such grace should extend similar mercy to others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word daneion means a loan or debt, but its roots suggest something deeper: generosity. It comes from a root meaning "gift," reminding us that lending money is often an act of trust and care between people. In the Bible, this word appears only once, in Matthew 18:27, where a servant owes an impossible amount to his king.
That story shows how overwhelming our spiritual debts can feel before God. Yet, the king forgives it completely. This teaches us that grace is not just about paying what we owe; it is about receiving mercy we cannot earn. When we understand how much has been forgiven to us, we are invited to extend that same kindness to others.
This word helps us see forgiveness as a relationship built on initial grace. It challenges us to let go of grudges and remember the freedom found in being loved beyond our ability to repay. May you find peace in knowing your debts are cleared, and may you share that hope with those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- debt1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δάνειον1×
Key Verses
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Matthew 18:27
The lord of that servant, being moved with compassion, released him and forgave him the debt.
This verse uses daneion to describe the massive, unpayable debt forgiven by the king, highlighting the scale of divine mercy.