δεκατέσσαρες

fourteen

Definition

The Greek adjective δεκατέσσαρες means 'fourteen'. It is a cardinal number used to denote a specific quantity, most notably in the New Testament to mark periods of time. In Matthew 1:17, it structures the genealogy of Jesus Christ into three sets of fourteen generations, creating a symbolic historical framework. In Galatians 2:1, Paul uses it to specify the number of years that passed before his return to Jerusalem, and in 2 Corinthians 12:2, it ambiguously refers to 'fourteen years ago' in relation to a visionary experience.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times in the New Testament, always as a precise numerical marker. Its usage spans different contexts: historical chronology (Matthew 1:17), biographical timeline (Galatians 2:1), and a reference point for a past event (2 Corinthians 12:2). It appears in both narrative (Matthew) and personal epistolary contexts (Paul's letters), consistently serving to anchor events or structures within a specific, countable timeframe.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words δέκα (deka, G1176), meaning 'ten', and τέσσαρες (tessares, G5064), meaning 'four'. It is a compound number formed in the standard Greek manner, literally 'ten and four'. It is cognate with other Greek numerals and follows the typical pattern for numbers between 13 and 19.

Semantic Range

While a simple number, its use in Matthew 1:17 carries theological weight. The structuring of Jesus's genealogy into three groups of fourteen generations is likely symbolic, potentially connecting to the Davidic lineage (the numerical value of David's name in Hebrew is 14). This pattern emphasizes God's sovereign orchestration of history and the fulfillment of messianic promises in Christ at the appointed time. In Paul's writings (Galatians 2:1, 2 Corinthians 12:2), it underscores the historical reality and careful timing of his apostolic ministry and revelations.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, numbers often carried symbolic or mnemonic significance beyond mere counting. Matthew's use of fourteen generations would have been recognized as a deliberate literary and theological device, making the genealogy easier to memorize and highlighting patterned divine activity. The precision of 'fourteen years' in Paul's letters reflects a common cultural practice of marking significant durations in one's life or ministry.

τέσσαρες (tessares, G5064) — The basic word for 'four'. δεκατέσσαρες specifies the compound number 'fourteen'. δέκα (deka, G1176) — The basic word for 'ten', one of its root components.

Word Details

Scripture References