δέκα δ., ten, a considerable number, pointing to an extensive household establishment. δέκα μνᾶς, ten pounds, not to each but among them (Luke 19:16). A Greek pound = about £3 or £4; a Hebrew = nearly double; in either case a small sum compared with the amounts in Matthew 15. The purpose in the two parables is entirely different. In the Talents the master divides his whole means among his servants to be traded with, as the best way of disposing of them during his absence. In the Pounds he simply gives a moderate sum, the same to all, with a view to test fidelity and capacity, as he desires to have tested men for higher service when the time comes. The amount may suit the master's finances, and though small it may just on that account the better test character and business talent. πραγματεύσασθε, trade with, here only in the Scriptures, found in Plutarch. ἔρχομαι : with ἕως (T.R.) = until I come back, with ἐν ᾧ (W.H [150]) = while I go (to the far country); perhaps it is used pregnantly to include going and returning.

[150] Westcott and Hort.

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Old Testament