Greek · Strong's G1427
δώδεκα
dṓdeka (DOH-deh-kah)
numeral
The Greek numeral twelve, often used symbolically in the Bible to represent completeness, divine order, or governmental perfection.
The Greek word *dōdeka* refers to the number twelve. Numerals in the biblical context often carry symbolic weight beyond their mathematical value, and "twelve" is particularly significant. It frequently appears in contexts related to the people of God, divine appointment, or eschatological fulfillment. The semantic range of *dōdeka* is narrow, directly indicating the quantity. However, its theological weight comes from the consistent patterns of its use. For example, the twelve tribes of Israel represent the completeness of God’s covenant people in the Old Testament, a theme that carries over into the New Testament with the twelve apostles representing the foundation of the new people of God, the Church. The constant appearance of this number in significant historical and prophetic contexts lends it a symbolic depth that goes beyond mere counting.
In the New Testament, "the twelve" often refers to the apostles specifically, emphasizing their foundational role in Christ’s ministry and the early Church. This usage highlights their unique commissioning and authority. The recurring appearance of twelve in the New Jerusalem in Revelation further underscores its importance in representing God’s perfect and complete order, particularly in the consummation of His redemptive plan. The number twelve, therefore, represents not just a quantity, but divine structure, and often points to God's chosen people and His perfect will being carried out in creation and redemption.
Common English renderings
- twelve
- the twelve
- twelfth
Key verses
"And he appointed twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,"
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"And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, that ye who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
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"Jesus said therefore unto the twelve, Would ye also go away?"
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"And he calleth unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits;"
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"having a wall great and high; having twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels; and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:"
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"And Judas Iscariot, he that was one of the twelve, went away unto the chief priests, that he might deliver him unto them."
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