τετραπλόος (tetraploos)
tetraploos
fourfold
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective tetraploos means fourfold or quadruple, describing a quantity that is multiplied by four. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:8, where the tax collector Zacchaeus declares his intention to repay anyone he has defrauded. His promise to give back four times the amount taken reflects a standard of restitution that exceeds mere legal requirement.
Etymologically, the word combines the prefix tetra-, meaning four, with a root related to folding or doubling. While some ancient laws required returning double what was stolen, Zacchaeus’s commitment demonstrates a generosity that goes significantly further. This single usage highlights a radical shift in his character, moving from exploitation to restorative justice.
Translators consistently render tetraploos as "fourfold" or "four times," preserving the precise mathematical nature of the promise. The term underscores the extraordinary length Zacchaeus was willing to go to make things right, serving as a concrete example of repentance expressed through tangible action rather than abstract sentiment.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tetraploos appears just once in the New Testament, carrying the simple meaning of 'fourfold.' In Luke 19:8, Zacchaeus uses it to describe his promise to repay those he cheated. This single term captures a dramatic shift from greed to generosity, showing that true change involves tangible action.
Repentance is not merely feeling sorry; it is making things right. Zacchaeus did not stop at the legal requirement of double repayment. He chose to give back four times as much, demonstrating a heart fully committed to justice and restoration. This example invites us to examine our own actions and consider how we might make amends in our daily lives.
When we face mistakes, especially those involving money or trust, this word reminds us that God values concrete steps toward healing. It is an invitation to move beyond words and into generous, restorative action, reflecting the grace that has transformed us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fourfold.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τετραπλοῦν.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 19:8
Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, half of my goods I give to the poor. If I have wrongfully exacted anything of anyone, I restore four times as much.”
This verse records Zacchaeus's specific promise to repay defrauded individuals four times the amount taken, highlighting the tangible nature of his repentance.