UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: pebble, small stone

Semantic entry: 2.27

Semantic domains: Natural Substances

Subdomains: Earth, Mud, Sand, Rock

Definition: a small stone, possibly used for casting a vote or as a magical amulet.

Notes: A number of different suggestions have been made as to the reference of ψῆφος in RV REV 2:17 · LV REV 2:17 · Read together REV 2:17. Some scholars believe that the white ψῆφος indicates a vote of acquittal in court. Others contend that it is simply a magical amulet; still others, a token of Roman hospitality; and finally, some have suggested that it may represent a ticket to the gladiatorial games, that is to say, to martyrdom. The context, however, suggests clearly that this is something to be prized and a type of reward for those who have ‘won the victory.’