### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **théros**, represented by `{{G2330}}`, is derived from a primary word meaning "to heat" and properly translates to **summer**. It is a specific term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is consistently tied to the season of summer as a recognizable and impending time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In all of its biblical occurrences, `{{G2330}}` is used within the Parable of the Fig Tree. This parable serves as an analogy for recognizing signs. When a fig tree's branch becomes **tender** ([[Matthew 24:32]], [[Mark 13:28]]) and begins to put forth leaves, it is an undeniable sign that **summer** is near. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark use this illustration to teach that one should be able to discern the times, stating "ye know that **summer** is nigh" [[Matthew 24:32]] and "ye know that **summer** is near" [[Mark 13:28]]. Luke presents a similar account, noting that when the trees "shoot forth," it is clear that "**summer** is now nigh at hand" [[Luke 21:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Greek words provide context for the agricultural imagery surrounding `{{G2330}}`:
* `{{G1451}}` **engýs** (near): This word, meaning "at hand, near, nigh," is paired with `{{G2330}}` in all three of its appearances, emphasizing the immediacy of summer's arrival [[Matthew 24:32]].
* `{{G527}}` **apalós** (tender): Defined as "soft," this word describes the state of the fig tree's branch, indicating new life and the coming season [[Mark 13:28]].
* `{{G1631}}` **ekphýō** (put forth): Meaning "to sprout up," it describes the action of the leaves emerging as a sign of summer [[Matthew 24:32]].
* `{{G4261}}` **probállō** (shoot forth): This word, meaning "to throw forward, i.e. push to the front, germinate," is used in Luke's account to describe the budding of the trees [[Luke 21:30]].
* `{{G5444}}` **phýllon** (leaf): A "leaf" is the physical evidence that heralds the coming of summer in the parable [[Mark 13:28]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{G2330}}` has a literal meaning, its theological weight comes from its symbolic use within this parable.
* **A Sign of Imminence:** The arrival of summer is not a surprise but the predictable result of observable signs, like leaves on a fig tree. It is used to teach the importance of recognizing the signs of the times [[Luke 21:30]].
* **The Certainty of What is "Nigh":** The word is always used with `{{G1451}}` **engýs**, reinforcing the concept of nearness. The same word for "nigh" is used to declare that "The Lord is at hand" [[Philippians 4:5]] and that "the time is at hand" [[Revelation 1:3]].
* **Observable Evidence:** The parable connects a natural, observable event—the budding of a tree before summer—to spiritual perception. Just as one knows summer is coming, one should know when other prophesied events are near.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2330}}` is a simple word for **summer** that is given a significant metaphorical role. It appears exclusively in the Parable of the Fig Tree, where it functions not just as a season, but as a symbol for a future event that is certain, imminent, and preceded by clear, observable signs. Its connection with the word `{{G1451}}` links this natural imagery directly to the theological concept of eschatological readiness.
TRV