χρυσός (chrusos)

chrusos

gold

G5557 · Greek · New Testament · 9 verses

Language: Koine Greek
Testament: New Testament
Occurrences: 9 verses
Root: —

Word Overview

The noun chrusos refers to gold, the precious metal valued across the ancient world for its beauty and durability. In the New Testament, it appears in nine verses, primarily within the Gospels, the letters of James, and the book of Revelation. The sources indicate that while it often denotes the raw material itself, it frequently describes crafted items made from the metal.

This distinction is important: chrusos can mean gold coin, as when Jesus instructs his disciples not to carry money in their belts (Matthew 10:9). It also refers to golden ornaments or jewelry, such as the gifts brought by the Magi (Matthew 2:11) or the adornments of Babylonian figures described in Revelation (Revelation 17:4; 18:12). The word even extends to statues, as seen when Paul challenges the Athenians to stop making gods of gold and silver (Acts 17:29).

The sources note that chrusos is the standard Greek term used in the Septuagint to translate the Hebrew word for gold. This continuity highlights its consistent role as a symbol of wealth, purity, and royal status throughout Scripture. Translators typically render it simply as "gold," allowing the context to determine whether the focus is on monetary value, decorative beauty, or idolatrous misuse.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

Gold appears in Scripture as more than just a valuable commodity; it serves as a tangible reminder of what truly endures. When the Magi presented gifts to the infant Jesus, their offering of gold acknowledged His royal identity and worthiness (Matthew 2:11). This act invites us to consider how we value Christ in our own lives, prioritizing Him above material wealth.

Conversely, the New Testament warns against trusting in gold as a source of security. James reminds believers that earthly treasures corrode and fade, urging us to store up something far more permanent (James 5:3). Paul similarly teaches that while our works may be tested by fire, only what is built on Christ with enduring materials will survive (1 Corinthians 3:12).

This duality encourages a balanced perspective. We can appreciate the beauty of craftsmanship and the utility of wealth without allowing them to define our security or identity. By focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary, we find peace in God's provision.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.

gold5×
to gold1×
of gold1×
gold?1×
gold,1×
as gold,1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

χρυσῷ2×
χρυσὸς2×
χρυσὸν2×
χρυσῷ,1×
χρυσόν;1×
χρυσόν,1×
χρυσοῦ1×

Key Verses

Matthew 2:11
They came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Opening their treasures, they offered to him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

This verse highlights gold as a royal gift, acknowledging Jesus' kingship through the Magi's worship.
James 5:3
Your gold and your silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be for a testimony against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up your treasure in the last days.

Here, gold is depicted as corruptible wealth that ultimately fails to protect its owners from judgment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'gold' symbolize in the New Testament?

Gold typically represents royalty, purity, and enduring value. In Matthew 2:11, it signifies Jesus' royal status, while in 1 Corinthians 3:12, it stands for works that last forever. It can also represent earthly wealth that is temporary, as seen in James 5:3.

Why did the Magi give gold to Jesus?

The gift of gold was a recognition of Jesus' kingship. In the ancient world, gold was reserved for royalty, so this offering by the Magi declared that they saw the child as a king worthy of honor (Matthew 2:11).

Is gold ever used negatively in the Bible?

Yes. In James 5:3, gold is described as corroding and serving as evidence against those who hoard wealth instead of helping others. It warns against trusting in material possessions for security or identity.

Every Occurrence (9 verses across 5 books)

Matthew 4 verses

Matthew 2:11

They came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Opening…

Matthew 10:9

Don’t take any gold, silver, or brass in your money belts.

Matthew 23:16

“Woe to you, you blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of…

Matthew 23:17

You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold?

Acts 1 verse

I Corinthians 1 verse

James 1 verse

Revelation of John 2 verses