ἄλευρον

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word áleuron, represented by G224, is the term for flour or meal. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The definition, "from (to grind); flour:--meal," indicates it is a product of grinding grain, a staple food item.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, G224 is used exclusively within a parable spoken by Jesus to illustrate the nature of the kingdom of heaven. In both Matthew and Luke, a woman hides leaven in "three measures of meal" until the entire mixture is affected Matthew 13:33. The meal serves as the medium through which the transformative agent of leaven works, demonstrating how the kingdom of heaven can permeate and influence everything it touches.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the use of meal:

• G2219 zýmē (ferment (as if boiling up):--leaven): This is the active agent that a woman hides within the meal to transform it, representing the kingdom of heaven in this parable Matthew 13:33.
• G2220 zymóō (to cause to ferment:--leaven): This verb describes the action that happens to the meal, as the leaven works until "the whole was leavened" Luke 13:21.
• G4568 sáton (a certain measure for things dry:--measure): This word specifies the quantity of meal being used, indicating a significant amount, "three measures," for the leaven to work through Matthew 13:33.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G224 is found entirely within its parabolic context.

• Medium of Transformation: The meal is not the focus of the parable, but the essential substance that is acted upon. It represents the world or a person's life that is wholly changed by the hidden, pervasive influence of the kingdom Matthew 13:33.
• Pervasive Influence: The image of the leaven working its way through the entire quantity of meal illustrates the unstoppable and complete nature of the kingdom's growth from a small, hidden beginning Luke 13:21.
• Everyday Symbolism: By using a common household item like meal, the parable grounds the profound concept of the kingdom's expansion in a simple, relatable domestic activity, making the teaching accessible.

Summary

In summary, G224 is a highly specific term whose significance is tied to its singular role in the parable of the leaven. While mentioned only twice, it provides the essential foundation for a powerful illustration of the kingdom of heaven. It is the passive but necessary element that is completely transformed, demonstrating the hidden yet total influence of God's work in the world.