πενιχρός (penichros)
penichros
poor
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective penichros describes a state of being needy or poor. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Luke 21:2, where Jesus observes a widow putting two small coins into the temple treasury. The word highlights her lack of material resources rather than just her social status.
Its meaning aligns closely with other Greek terms for poverty, emphasizing a condition of neediness that requires support. This usage reflects the broader biblical concern for those who are economically vulnerable and dependent on the community or God for sustenance.
The term’s rarity in the New Testament underscores its specific application to this poignant moment. It captures the depth of the widow’s sacrifice, as she gives out of her absolute poverty, illustrating a profound act of faith and devotion despite her dire circumstances.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word penichros describes a state of deep neediness, where one has very little to call their own. In Luke 21:2, Jesus uses this term for a widow who puts in two small coins. It is not just about having less money than others; it is about being fundamentally dependent on God because there is nothing left in the bank of life.
This moment reminds us that God sees the value in our sacrifice, even when it seems tiny to the world. The widow gave out of her absolute poverty, trusting that God would provide. Her act shows that true devotion is not measured by the size of the gift, but by the heart that offers it. When we feel we have nothing left to give, this story assures us that our faithful trust is seen and honored.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- poor1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- πενιχρὰν1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 21:2
He saw a certain poor widow casting in two small brass coins.
This verse uniquely applies the adjective penichros to highlight that the widow's offering came from a state of absolute material need, emphasizing the depth of her sacrifice.