γλωσσόκομον

From the study of John 12:6

Range of meaning

Originally a case for the mouthpieces ('tongues', from γλῶσσα + κομέω, 'to keep') of reed instruments. Later it meant any case, box or chest: a coffin-like box, a coffer, a money box.

Against the English

KJV and YLT have 'bag'; BSB 'money bag'; WEB and NASB 'money box'. 'Box' is closer to how the word was used. 'Bag' is not wrong in function, but it pictures a soft purse.

How it drifted

The KJV's 'bag' became the traditional image (Judas with a purse of coins in art). That reflects how a treasurer was imagined in later times more than the Greek word itself.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the Greek Old Testament (LXX), 2 Chronicles 24:8, 10 uses it for the chest King Joash set at the temple gate to collect contributions. Josephus uses it of the box in which the Philistines sent back gold offerings (Antiquities 6.11). Greek grammarians of the Roman period (e.g. Phrynichus) discuss its origin as an instrument case. It appears in papyri as a container for valuables.

From the study of John 13:29

Range of meaning

Literally 'tongue-keeper'. The word first meant a case for keeping the reeds or 'tongues' (mouthpieces) of wind instruments. It then widened to any box, case or chest, including a coffin, and especially a box for keeping money or valuables.

Against the English

KJV and YLT have 'bag', BSB 'money bag', WEB and NASB 'money box'. Some versions avoid naming the object at all and say Judas was in charge of the money or was the treasurer. 'Bag' suggests a soft purse; the Greek suggests a box or chest.

How it drifted

Older English 'bag' could mean any container for money. The KJV wording passed into popular imagery, so Judas is usually pictured with a pouch of coins.

Used elsewhere in the period

In the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), 2 Chronicles 24:8, 10 uses it for the chest King Joash placed at the temple gate to collect offerings. Greek papyri (everyday documents preserved in Egypt's sand) use it for boxes and cases of various kinds (Moulton–Milligan). In the New Testament it occurs only in John 12:6 and here.