### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katamanthánō**, represented by `{{G2648}}`, means **to learn thoroughly** or **to note carefully**. It is an intensive form of learning that implies deep, careful observation. This word appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is translated as **consider**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G2648}}` is found in [[Matthew 6:28]], where it serves as a key command in a lesson about anxiety. In the passage, after questioning why people take thought for raiment, the instruction is given: "**Consider** the lilies of the field, how they grow." This act of considering is presented as an antidote to worry, contrasting the effortless growth of the lilies with the human tendency to toil and spin. The command urges a focused observation of nature to understand a spiritual truth about God's provision.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help illuminate the meaning of `{{G2648}}`:
* `{{G3309}}` **merimnáō** (to be anxious about): This is the specific action that `{{G2648}}` is meant to counteract. The passage directly asks why people **take ye thought** for clothing before instructing them to consider the lilies [[Matthew 6:28]].
* `{{G2918}}` **krínon** (a lily): This is the object of the careful consideration. The **lilies** of the field serve as the primary exhibit of God's provision and artistry, existing without anxious labor [[Matthew 6:28]].
* `{{G2872}}` **kopiáō** (to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard): This word describes the strenuous human effort that the lilies do not perform. The text explicitly states that the lilies **toil** not, setting up a contrast with the burdensome work often driven by human anxiety [[Matthew 6:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2648}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a profound spiritual discipline.
* **An Antidote to Anxiety:** The command to **consider** is a direct remedy for the state of being anxious (merimnáō) about material needs. It redirects the mind from sources of worry to the evidence of God's care [[Matthew 6:28]].
* **Learning from Creation:** The definition "to learn thoroughly" highlights that nature is presented as a teacher. By carefully studying the lilies, one can learn a lesson about divine providence and how things **grow** `{{G837}}` under God's care without toil.
* **A Shift in Focus:** The act of using `{{G2648}}` involves a deliberate mental shift away from self-reliant striving, such as to **toil** `{{G2872}}` or to **spin** `{{G3514}}`, and toward a restful observation of God's work in the world.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{G2648}}` **katamanthánō** carries significant meaning. It is more than a casual glance; it is a call to study and learn deeply from a specific example. Its use in [[Matthew 6:28]] frames the observation of nature not as a passive activity, but as an active spiritual practice to counter worry and build faith in God's provision.
TRV