Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient world, the concept and use of money evolved significantly over time, with various cultures contributing to its development. Among these, the Romans played a pivotal role in the introduction and widespread use of brass as a form of currency. This innovation had profound implications for trade, economy, and daily life in the regions under Roman influence, including those mentioned in the biblical narrative.Historical Context The Roman Empire, known for its extensive reach and sophisticated administration, introduced brass coinage as part of its monetary system. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, was valued for its durability and aesthetic appeal. The Romans began minting brass coins, known as "sestertii" and "dupondii," during the late Republic and early Empire periods. These coins became a staple in the Roman economy, facilitating trade and commerce across the empire. Biblical References and Implications While the Bible does not explicitly mention brass coins, the economic backdrop of the New Testament period was heavily influenced by Roman practices, including their monetary system. The use of Roman coinage is evident in several passages, reflecting the integration of Roman economic practices into daily life in Judea and surrounding regions. In the Gospels, Jesus' interactions often allude to the Roman monetary system. For instance, in Matthew 22:19-21 , Jesus is asked about paying taxes to Caesar and responds by requesting a denarius, a Roman silver coin, to illustrate His point about civic duty and spiritual allegiance: "Show Me the coin used for the tax. So they brought Him a denarius. 'Whose image is this,' He asked, 'and whose inscription?' 'Caesar’s,' they answered. So Jesus told them, 'Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'" Although the denarius mentioned here is a silver coin, the presence of Roman currency, including brass coins, underscores the pervasive influence of Roman economic systems in the region. The use of such currency would have been familiar to Jesus' audience, highlighting the practical realities of living under Roman rule. Economic and Social Impact The introduction of brass coinage by the Romans had significant economic and social implications. It facilitated trade by providing a standardized medium of exchange, which was crucial for the economic integration of the vast Roman Empire. This standardization allowed for more efficient taxation, commerce, and the movement of goods and services. Moreover, the use of Roman coinage, including brass coins, symbolized the political and cultural dominance of Rome. It served as a daily reminder of Roman authority and the empire's reach, influencing various aspects of life, including those of the Jewish people during the time of Jesus and the early church. Conclusion The introduction of brass as a form of currency by the Romans represents a key development in the history of money. While the Bible does not specifically mention brass coins, the economic environment of the New Testament era was shaped by Roman innovations in currency, reflecting the broader cultural and political context in which the biblical narrative unfolds. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 10:9Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Honors that were Paid the Jews; and the Leagues that were Made ... Concerning Masada and those Sicarii who Kept It; and How Silva ... 1 Cor. xii. 27 The Absurdity and Shamefulness of the Images by which the Gods are ... The Third Continental Journey, or the Journey to Greece. This HomilyWas Delivered in the Old Church of Antioch Book ii. On the Return of Flavian the Bishop, and the Reconciliation of the ... Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ... Treatise on the Priesthood. Book vi. Resources Should the church accept money if it is obtained in an ungodly manner? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian invest money in the stock market? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about handling money in a marriage? | GotQuestions.org Money: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Money Changers: General Scriptures Concerning Money of the Jews Regulated by the Standard of Sanctuary Money of the Romans, Stamped With the Image of Caesar Money was Current With the Merchants Money was Given for Merchandise Money was Given: Custom of Presenting a Piece of Money was Given: Love of, the Root of all Evil Money was Given: Power and Usefulness of Money: Brass Introduced As, by the Romans Money: Gold and Silver Used As Money: Jews Forbidden to Take Usury For Money: Love of, the Root of Evil Money: Originally Stamped With the Image of a Lamb Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Farthing Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Fourth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Gerah the Twentieth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Half Shekel or Bekah Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Mite Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Penny Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Pound Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Shekel of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Gold Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Third of a Shekel Money: Usually Taken by Weight Money: Value of, Varied Corruptly Related Terms Money-changers (5 Occurrences) Redemption-money (3 Occurrences) |
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