λίτρα (litra)
litra
pound
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun litra refers to a unit of weight equivalent to a Roman pound, or roughly 340 grams. Of Latin origin, it appears only twice in the New Testament, specifically within the Gospel of John. This rare usage highlights the tangible, material reality of the events described, grounding spiritual narratives in measurable quantities.
In John 12:3, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with a pound of costly perfume, while John 19:39 notes that Nicodemus brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes weighing about a hundred pounds. These substantial amounts underscore the depth of devotion and honor shown to Jesus, contrasting sharply with the modest offerings often seen elsewhere in Scripture.
Translators consistently render litra as "pound," preserving its precise weight-based meaning. The word’s presence in these specific contexts emphasizes the extravagance of the acts performed, inviting readers to consider the value placed on Christ’s person and mission through concrete, historical details rather than abstract concepts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word litra represents a specific measure of weight, roughly equivalent to 340 grams or one Roman pound. While it appears only twice in the New Testament, its presence in the Gospel of John anchors spiritual truths in physical reality. By using a standard unit of commerce and daily life, the biblical text reminds us that faith is not merely abstract but involves tangible actions and real-world resources.
In John 12:3, Mary uses a full pound of expensive nard to anoint Jesus’ feet. This was not a small token but a substantial gift, likely worth a year’s wages for a laborer. Her act demonstrates that honoring Christ often requires significant personal sacrifice and extravagant love. It challenges us to consider what we value enough to give freely.
Similarly, John 19:39 records Nicodemus bringing about a hundred pounds of spices for Jesus’ burial. This massive quantity signals profound respect and preparation for a king’s funeral. These details show that devotion to Jesus is measured by the depth of our commitment. We are invited to offer our best resources and time, trusting that such acts honor Him deeply.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- litras1×
- a litra1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- λίτρας1×
- λίτραν1×
Key Verses
-
John 12:3
Therefore Mary took a pound of ointment of pure nard, very precious, and anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.
This verse highlights the extravagance of Mary's devotion by specifying a full pound of costly nard, showing that honoring Jesus involves significant personal sacrifice.
-
John 19:39
Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred Roman pounds.
Here the large quantity of spices underscores Nicodemus's public honor and deep respect for Jesus, treating Him with the dignity due a king even in death.