### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zizánion**, represented by `{{G2215}}`, refers to a type of **darnel or false grain**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within a single parable. Though its origin is uncertain, its biblical usage is highly specific, denoting **tares** that mimic wheat but are ultimately worthless and harmful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2215}}` is central to the parable of the **tares** in Matthew 13. An **enemy** `{{G2190}}` maliciously **sowed** `{{G4687}}` **tares** among the good **wheat** `{{G4621}}` in a householder's field [[Matthew 13:25]]. These false grains were not immediately distinguishable, only **appearing** `{{G5316}}` after the true crop began to sprout [[Matthew 13:26]]. When servants asked if they should gather the **tares**, the householder forbade it, warning that in gathering the **tares** `{{G2215}}`, they might also **root up** `{{G1610}}` the wheat with them [[Matthew 13:29]]. Instead, both were to grow together until the harvest.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of **tares**:
* `{{G4687}}` **speírō** (to sow): This verb is crucial as it describes the action that introduces the **tares** `{{G2215}}`. An **enemy** `{{G2190}}` came and **sowed** them with evil intent [[Matthew 13:25]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term identifies the agent responsible for the **tares**. The parable identifies this figure as an **adversary** who acts in opposition to the householder [[Matthew 13:25]], and is later explained to be the devil [[Matthew 13:39]].
* `{{G4621}}` **sîtos** (wheat): As the true crop, **wheat** stands in direct contrast to **tares**. The parable hinges on their initial resemblance and eventual separation, with the **wheat** being gathered into the **barn** `{{G596}}` while the tares are burned [[Matthew 13:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2215}}` is revealed in Jesus's explanation of the parable.
* **Symbol of the Wicked:** The **tares** are explicitly identified not as mere weeds, but as "the **children** `{{G5207}}` of the **wicked** `{{G4190}}` one" [[Matthew 13:38]]. They represent those who belong to the kingdom of the enemy.
* **Coexistence Until the End:** The command to let both **grow together** `{{G4885}}` until the **harvest** `{{G2326}}` illustrates that good and evil will coexist in the **world** `{{G2889}}` for a set time [[Matthew 13:30]]. The harvest itself represents "the **end** `{{G4930}}` of the **world** `{{G165}}`" [[Matthew 13:39]].
* **Eschatological Judgment:** The final destiny of the **tares** `{{G2215}}` is to be **gathered** `{{G4816}}` and **burned** `{{G2618}}`, a picture of final judgment [[Matthew 13:40]]. This contrasts with the destiny of the righteous, represented by the wheat.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2215}}` is a powerful symbol within scripture. While literally meaning **darnel or false grain**, it is used exclusively in Matthew 13 to represent the presence of evil sown into the world by an **enemy** `{{G2190}}`. The Parable of the **Tares** illustrates the coexistence of the righteous and the wicked until the final **harvest**, at which point a divine separation and judgment will occur. The word encapsulates a key biblical teaching on the nature of good, evil, and eschatology.
TRV