Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "wallet" as understood in the modern sense did not exist. However, the Bible does reference items that served similar purposes, such as money bags or pouches, which were used to carry coins and other small personal items. These items are mentioned in various contexts throughout Scripture, often symbolizing preparedness, provision, or the lack thereof.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the use of money bags or pouches is implied in several passages. For instance, in Genesis 42:35, when Joseph's brothers discover their money returned in their sacks, it indicates the use of containers for carrying valuables. Although not explicitly called wallets, these sacks served a similar function in transporting and safeguarding possessions. New Testament Context The New Testament provides more direct references to money bags, which can be seen as the ancient equivalent of a wallet. In the Gospels, Jesus instructs His disciples regarding their journey and provisions. In Luke 10:4 , Jesus tells the seventy-two disciples, "Carry no purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone along the road." Here, the "purse" (Greek: ballantion) can be understood as a money bag or wallet, emphasizing reliance on God's provision rather than material preparation. Similarly, in Luke 22:35-36 , Jesus contrasts earlier instructions with new guidance: "Then Jesus asked them, 'When I sent you out without purse or bag or sandals, did you lack anything?' 'Nothing,' they answered. 'Now, however,' He told them, 'the one with a purse should take it, and likewise a bag; and the one without a sword should sell his cloak and buy one.'" This passage highlights a shift in the disciples' mission, where practical preparation, including carrying a purse or wallet, becomes necessary. Symbolism and Lessons The wallet or money bag in biblical texts often symbolizes trust and dependence on God versus reliance on material wealth. In Matthew 6:19-21 , Jesus teaches about the transient nature of earthly treasures: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This passage encourages believers to prioritize spiritual wealth over material possessions. Furthermore, the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 warns against hoarding wealth without regard for one's spiritual state. The rich man's focus on storing up earthly goods ultimately leads to his downfall, as God calls him to account for his life that very night. Practical Implications While the Bible does not explicitly mention wallets as we know them today, the principles surrounding the use of money bags or pouches offer timeless lessons. Believers are encouraged to exercise wise stewardship of their resources, maintain a heart of generosity, and place their trust in God's provision rather than in material wealth. The biblical perspective on possessions serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly goods and the eternal value of spiritual riches. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A bag or sack for carrying about the person, as a bag for carrying the necessaries for a journey; a knapsack; a beggar's receptacle for charity; a peddler's pack.2. (n.) A pocketbook for keeping money about the person. 3. (n.) Anything protuberant and swagging. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia WALLETwol'-et, -it. Greek 4082. pera -- a leather pouch ... a leather pouch. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: pera Phonetic Spelling: (pay'-rah) Short Definition: a sack, wallet Definition: a sack, wallet ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4082.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 3219. yalqut -- receptacle, perhaps a wallet... 3218, 3219. yalqut. 3220 . receptacle, perhaps a wallet. Transliteration: yalqut Phonetic Spelling: (yal-koot') Short Definition: pouch. ... /hebrew/3219.htm - 6k Library B. The Last Supper. Ch. 22:7-38 Third Circuit of Galilee. The Twelve Instructed and Sent Forth. The Farewell Conversation. The Mission of the Twelve Of the Life and Miracles of Jesus, and Testimonies Concerning Them ... Thursday --The Day of Fellowship. In the Desert Judas' Betrayal and Peter's Denial Foretold. Under Ban of the Ritual Broken Bread Thesaurus Wallet (7 Occurrences)... swagging. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. WALLET. wol'-et, -it. See SCRIP. Multi-Version Concordance Wallet (7 Occurrences). Matthew ... /w/wallet.htm - 8k Purse (7 Occurrences) Scrip (7 Occurrences) Belt (32 Occurrences) Bag (52 Occurrences) Journey (214 Occurrences) Staff (91 Occurrences) Nothing (769 Occurrences) Lack (86 Occurrences) Resources What is miracle money, and is it biblical to seek it? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Universal Life Church? | GotQuestions.org Wallet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Wallet (7 Occurrences)Matthew 10:10 Mark 6:8 Luke 9:3 Luke 10:4 Luke 22:35 Luke 22:36 1 Samuel 17:40 Subtopics Related Terms |