Definition: And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 12:42. It's a really interesting little snippet about generosity and giving. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a woman who was incredibly poor and gave a very small amount – two mites – that is worth the same as a farthing (which is roughly equivalent to 20 cents today). Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And there came a certain poor widow…” : This tells us we’re talking about someone who was struggling financially. It highlights the importance of compassion and helping those in need. “…and she threw in two mites…” : "Mites" is a fairly archaic word for a small amount – think like a tiny bit of money. “She threw them in” means she gave it willingly, without expecting anything in return. “which make a farthing.” : This is the crucial part! A farthing was a unit of currency back then (like a penny). So, two mites equal a farthing. The Significance: This story is often interpreted as a teaching about: True generosity isn’t just about giving money: It's about giving your time, your kindness, and your love to others. Value of small acts: It shows that even the smallest act of generosity can have a big impact on someone’s life. The importance of compassion: The woman’s willingness to give this small amount demonstrates a deep concern for others. In short, it's a reminder that giving freely, even with something seemingly insignificant, is a powerful and meaningful thing. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail (like where it appears in the Bible)? Explore what this story might symbolize or mean for us today?