χρυσοδακτύλιος (chrusodaktulios)
chrusodaktulios
gold-ringed
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective chrusodaktulios describes something adorned with gold rings, appearing only once in the New Testament at James 2:2. It modifies a person’s clothing, specifically depicting an individual wearing garments embellished with this precious metal.
The word is a compound of chrysos, meaning gold, and daktulos, meaning finger or ring. This construction creates a vivid image of wealth and status, contrasting sharply with the poor man described in the same verse who wears faded clothes. The term highlights the visual distinction between social classes in the early church gathering.
Its singular occurrence underscores the specific cultural context James addresses. By using this precise descriptor, the text emphasizes the sin of showing partiality based on outward appearance rather than spiritual standing. The word serves as a concrete marker of the worldly values that the letter warns against.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chrusodaktulios appears only once in Scripture, painting a vivid picture of wealth through a gold-ringed finger. In James 2:2, this detail marks a visitor who expects special treatment based on his expensive attire. The text uses this specific image to highlight the danger of judging others by their outward appearance rather than their heart.
For your faith life, this reminder is both gentle and firm. It invites you to look past social status or material success when meeting fellow believers. True honor comes from recognizing the dignity God gives to every person, regardless of their clothing or bank account. This perspective helps build a community where everyone feels equally valued and respected.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- with a gold ring1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- χρυσοδακτύλιος1×
Key Verses
-
James 2:2
For if a man with a gold ring, in fine clothing, comes into your synagogue, and a poor man in filthy clothing also comes in,
This verse uses the term to visually distinguish a wealthy visitor from a poor one, illustrating the sin of partiality in the early church gathering.