Mite
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Mite in the Bible?
The smallest denomination of currency in circulation among Jews in the first century, originally minted by Maccabean rulers with Hebrew inscriptions and later by Herodian kings and Roman procurators with Greek inscriptions.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the mite as the lowest value coin clarifies the narrative impact of the widow's offering in Mark 12:42 and Luke 21:2, emphasizing that her contribution represented her entire livelihood rather than a trivial amount.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Mite were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Mite in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Mite clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Mark 12:42Luke 21:2
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Mite." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/mite/