### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kárphos**, represented by `{{G2595}}`, refers to a **dry twig or straw**. It appears **6 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning "to wither," it signifies a small, insignificant speck, and is consistently translated as **mote**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2595}}` is used exclusively within a specific teaching of Jesus found in both Matthew and Luke. It serves as a powerful metaphor in the command, "why beholdest thou the **mote** that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" [[Matthew 7:3]]. The word is always placed in direct contrast to the **beam** `{{G1385}}`, highlighting the absurdity of focusing on a tiny flaw in another while being blinded by a massive one in oneself. The context is a lesson on judgment, urging self-examination before attempting to correct a brother [[Luke 6:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential to understanding the context of `{{G2595}}`:
* `{{G1385}}` **dokós** (a stick of timber:--beam): This word is the direct counterpart to **kárphos** in every one of its occurrences, representing the larger, more significant fault of the accuser [[Matthew 7:4]].
* `{{G1544}}` **ekbállō** (to eject (literally or figuratively)): This is the action verb used for removing both the **mote** and the beam. One is instructed to first **cast out** the beam from their own eye before they can clearly **pull out** the **mote** from their brother's eye [[Luke 6:42]].
* `{{G5273}}` **hypokritḗs** (an actor under an assumed character... a dissembler ("hypocrite":--hypocrite): This term is used to directly address the person who focuses on the **mote** in another's eye while ignoring their own beam, defining the behavior as hypocrisy [[Matthew 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2595}}` is tied directly to its role in Jesus' teaching on judgment.
* **Metaphor for Minor Faults:** The **mote** symbolizes a small, external sin or fault in another person, which is easy to **behold** `{{G991}}` and criticize [[Matthew 7:3]].
* **Illustration of Hypocrisy:** By focusing on the tiny **mote** in a brother's eye, a person with a **beam** `{{G1385}}` in their own is labeled a **hypocrite** `{{G5273}}`, revealing a profound lack of self-awareness and right judgment [[Luke 6:42]].
* **Principle of Righteous Correction:** The teaching establishes that proper spiritual correction must begin with personal repentance. Only after one has **cast out** `{{G1544}}` their own major sin (the beam) can they "see clearly to pull out the **mote**" from their brother's eye [[Luke 6:42]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2595}}` **kárphos** is far more than a word for a wood splinter. It functions as a crucial symbolic element in one of the most memorable teachings on interpersonal conduct. Its consistent use in contrast to the **beam** serves as a stark and enduring warning against hypocritical judgment, emphasizing that genuine spiritual clarity and the right to help others begins with rigorous self-examination.
TRV