Topical Bible: Widow: The Woman Who Gave Two Mites (Leptas) in the Temple Courtyard

◄ Widow: The Woman Who Gave Two Mites (Leptas) in the Temple Courtyard ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the widow who gave two mites, or leptas, is a poignant narrative found in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4. This story is set in the Temple courtyard in Jerusalem, where Jesus observes the actions of those contributing to the Temple treasury. The widow's offering, though monetarily small, is highlighted by Jesus as an exemplar of true generosity and faith.

Biblical Context and Narrative:

In the Gospel of Mark, the passage reads: "Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into it. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amounted to a small fraction of a denarius. Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, 'Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. For they all contributed out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.'" (Mark 12:41-44).

Similarly, Luke's account emphasizes the same message: "Looking up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, and He saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. 'Truly I tell you,' He said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. For they all contributed out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.'" (Luke 21:1-4).

Theological Significance:

The widow's offering is significant for several reasons. First, it underscores the principle that God values the heart and intent behind the gift more than the gift's monetary value. The widow's act of giving "all she had to live on" demonstrates a profound trust in God's provision and a selfless devotion to Him. Her faith contrasts sharply with the actions of the wealthy, who gave out of their abundance without personal sacrifice.

This narrative also serves as a critique of societal and religious systems that neglect the vulnerable. The widow's poverty highlights the broader biblical concern for justice and care for widows, orphans, and the marginalized, as seen throughout Scripture (e.g., James 1:27, Isaiah 1:17).

Cultural and Historical Insights:

The two mites, or leptas, were the smallest and least valuable coins in circulation in Judea at the time. The widow's offering, therefore, was of negligible economic value, yet it was of immense spiritual worth. This act took place in the Court of Women, one of the outer courts of the Temple, where both men and women could come to worship and give offerings.

Lessons and Applications:

The story of the widow's offering challenges believers to examine their own giving and the motivations behind it. It calls for a heart of generosity that prioritizes faithfulness over financial capability. The widow's example encourages Christians to trust in God's provision and to give sacrificially, knowing that God honors the spirit of the giver.

In conclusion, the account of the widow who gave two mites remains a timeless testament to the values of faith, sacrifice, and genuine devotion. Her story continues to inspire believers to live out their faith with humility and trust in God's unfailing care.

Nave's Topical Index

Mark 12:41-44
And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.
Nave's Topical Index