### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zymóō**, represented by `{{G2220}}`, means **to cause to ferment**. It is derived from the noun ζύμη (leaven) and appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** of the Bible. The word describes the process by which a fermenting agent spreads through and transforms a larger mass.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2220}}` is used metaphorically to illustrate the principle of pervasive influence. In the parables of Matthew and Luke, the kingdom of heaven is compared to leaven that a woman hid in meal until the entire batch **was leavened** ([[Matthew 13:33]], [[Luke 13:21]]). Conversely, Paul uses the same concept as a warning, stating that "a little leaven **leaveneth** the whole lump" to caution against the corrupting influence of sin within the community [[1 Corinthians 5:6]] and the spread of false teachings [[Galatians 5:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of this concept:
* `{{G2219}}` **zýmē** (ferment (as if boiling up):--leaven): This is the noun form from which `{{G2220}}` is derived. It is used to represent corrupting influences such as "the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy" [[Luke 12:1]] and the "leaven of malice and wickedness" [[1 Corinthians 5:8]].
* `{{G5445}}` **phýrama** (a mass of dough:--lump): This word refers to the "whole lump" that is affected by the leaven, appearing in both [[1 Corinthians 5:6]] and [[Galatians 5:9]]. It represents the community or individual that can be thoroughly influenced.
* `{{G3398}}` **mikrós** (small... little): This adjective is used to describe the leaven in the warnings found in [[Galatians 5:9]] and [[1 Corinthians 5:6]], emphasizing that even a **small** or seemingly insignificant amount of corruption can have a total effect.
* `{{G1470}}` **enkrýptō** (to conceal in, i.e. incorporate with:--hid in): This verb describes the action taken in the parables of [[Matthew 13:33]] and [[Luke 13:21]], where the leaven is intentionally **hid in** the meal to begin the process.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2220}}` is centered on the power of pervasive influence, for both good and ill.
* **The Spread of the Kingdom:** The word is used positively to describe the nature of the kingdom of heaven. Its growth may start small and hidden, but it is meant to permeate and transform everything it touches ([[Matthew 13:33]], [[Luke 13:21]]).
* **The Danger of Corruption:** It serves as a stark warning that a **little** sin or false doctrine, if left unchecked, can corrupt the entire body of believers. This is why Paul urges believers to purge out the old leaven [[1 Corinthians 5:6-7]].
* **The Principle of Pervasiveness:** The core lesson is that influences, whether righteous or wicked, are not static. The action of leavening illustrates that ideas and behaviors will spread until they affect the whole, highlighting the importance of both guarding against evil and cultivating good.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2220}}` is a powerful verb that moves beyond its literal meaning of fermentation. It functions as a biblical metaphor to teach a critical principle: small beginnings can lead to total transformation. Whether illustrating the unstoppable, quiet growth of God's kingdom or warning against the subtle and complete corruption of sin, **zymóō** demonstrates that nothing exists in isolation within the spiritual life.
TRV