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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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