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G30 · Greek · New Testament
Ἀγγεῖον
Aggeion
Noun, neuter
Vessel, container, flask

Definition

The Greek noun aggeion (Ἀγγεῖον) refers to a vessel, container, or flask — typically a small portable container for liquids. It appears in the New Testament in Matthew 13:48 (containers for sorting fish) and Matthew 25:4 (the flasks of oil carried by the wise virgins). The word is distinct from the larger aggos (H30 in Greek) used for bigger containers.

Usage & Theological Significance

The most theologically resonant use of aggeion is in the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). The five wise virgins brought extra oil in their aggeion — their flasks — while the five foolish virgins brought none. Jesus uses this parable to teach about preparedness, watchfulness, and the true nature of readiness for the kingdom. The oil is often interpreted as the Holy Spirit, grace, or a living faith that sustains one through the wait. The aggeion — the vessel — represents the interior life, the capacity to hold and sustain what God has given. Outer religious appearance (lamps) is not enough; the vessel must be filled. This connects to Paul's teaching that believers are "jars of clay" (2 Corinthians 4:7) — vessels carrying the treasure of the gospel.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 25:4
The wise ones, however, took oil in jars (aggeion) along with their lamps.
Matthew 25:8-9
"The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.'"
Matthew 13:48
When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets (aggeion), but threw the bad away.
2 Corinthians 4:7
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
Matthew 25:13
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."

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