[Greek] διπλοῦς (diplous), [Latin] duplus: double, two-fold, twice as much, folded; Mt.23:15, 1Tim.5:17, Rev.18:6
These two metal plates (diploma) were issued by the emperor Trajan on Oct 14, 109. The text on the plates announces the granting of military honors and citizenship rights of retiring soldiers who served in the Roman army.
Background information:
Diploma: This term comes from the Greek diploma, meaning folded paper. During the Roman Empire, all passports and passes were stamped on double metal plates, folded and sewn together. These metals passes (diploma) conferred privileges or arrangements with foreign communities or tribes. Interestingly, the plural form of this term is diplomata. A traveler (diplomat), having possession of this diploma, was given the authority by the government to conduct negotiations (trade and international relations) with other nations and provinces. In the 1680’s, the diploma becomes a writing under seal coming from an authority conferring some honor or privilege.
Greek Hellenism: This term means to do be doubled, to double, folded up, and two-fold. Xenophon’s Hellenica 6.5.19 states “When the phalanx had been thus doubled in depth, he preceded into the plan with the hoplites in this formation, and then extended the army again into a line 9 or 10 shields deep.” Plutarch’s Camillus 41 states “But the Romans thrust their javelins into their faces received their strokes on the parts that were shielded by iron, and so turn the edge of their metal, which was soft and weakly tempered, so much that their swords quickly bent up double.”
Old Testament: This term references two Hebrew terms. One Hebrew term means to double, to fold double, and to double over. This meaning has the sense of to fold together and to repeat. The other Hebrew term means a copy, double, and second. This meaning has the sense of repetition, doubling, and being second in order (rank or age). It shall be square and folded double, as span in length and a span in width (Exo.28:16). You shall double over the sixth curtain at the front of the tent (Exo.26:9). He had him ride in his second chariot (Gen.41:43). Take double the money in your hand (Gen.43:12). On the sixth day, when they prepare what they bring in, it will be twice as much as they gather daily (Exo.16:5). He shall write for himself a copy of this law on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests (Deut.17:18). Now the name of his firstborn was Joel, and the name of his second Abijah (1Sam.8:2).
New Testament: This term refers to the doubling of honor, retribution, and zeal. The presbyters, supported by the community, were responsible for the preaching and teaching. These presbyters, often faced with public criticism (accusations), were honored for upholding these teachings. Converts, espousing right or wrong beliefs, have more zeal than the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees. Rome, harlot of Babylon, is to receive double retribution from God.
Conclusion:
Diploma, diplomatic, diplomacy, duplicate
As perhaps with many others, I never really considered how there could be a direct relationship with the words ‘diploma’ and ‘diplomat’. I really did not know that these terms were related by the sense of doubling or folding. It was very interesting to discover the original meaning of a diploma used for diplomacy. Now it makes very clear sense! This conferring of authority or recognition provides for the importance of a diploma.
In the Greek Hellenistic era, I can imagine that this term would be used in all walks of life and situations. Most notably, this term can be found in warfare.
In the Old Testament, I was surprised by its many scriptural references. It was interesting to discover the more nuanced meanings such as a copy (imitation), and being second in rank (order).
In the New Testament, this term is used in various ways. This term makes reference to the scribes and Pharisees being indifferent and hypocritical. The faithful presbyter, who espoused faithful teachings and preaching, was bestowed with great honor (even in the face of adversity or persecution). This value of a faithful teacher or preacher still holds true in our current times.
Unfortunately, there seems to be more and more teachers and preachers, fearful of being criticized, who often seem to adapt, dilute or change church teachings in order to accommodate to the values of the modern secular world. As a result, this has led to much confusion for the faithful who are searching for truth and authenticity in church teachings and church leaders. Now oftentimes, Christian values are now called offensive or hateful!
Update Coronavirus Pandemic: In light of this pandemic, schools have closed. Perhaps the majority of schools have some type of online means to provide education for the kids. For many other students, this instruction will fall upon the parents. So, parents: to say this diplomatically, you need to bring your “A game” in being a teacher to your kids. https://www.khou.com/article/features/cy-fair-second-grader-my-mom-sucks-as-a-teacher/285-57b1496d-1532-4a5d-a8f2-26018f0005f5
I think it will go without saying that teachers will be doubly appreciated (by students and parents) for what they do. (One does not need to have a diploma to figure that out)!