### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **klíbanos**, represented by `{{G2823}}`, refers to an **oven**. Its derivation is uncertain, but its meaning is an earthen pot used for baking. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, where it is used not just as a household object but as a key element in a powerful metaphor about God's providence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its two scriptural appearances, `{{G2823}}` is used in an identical context within a teaching on faith and worry. The imagery is of "the grass of the field," which is alive one day but is cut and used as fuel the next, being "cast into the **oven**" ([[Matthew 6:30]], [[Luke 12:28]]). This illustrates the temporary and disposable nature of the grass, which is then contrasted with God's much greater care for His people, whom He addresses as "O ye of little faith" [[Matthew 6:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the scene in which the **oven** appears:
* `{{G5528}}` **chórtos**: This word for herbage or vegetation identifies the **grass** that is used as fuel for the **oven**. Its fleeting existence is central to the metaphor, as seen when it is described as something that "withereth" [[James 1:11]].
* `{{G68}}` **agrós**: Defined as a **field** or a piece of ground, this word establishes the setting. The grass comes from the **field** [[Matthew 6:30]], a common location in many parables and teachings.
* `{{G906}}` **bállō**: This primary verb means **to throw** or cast. It describes the action of the grass being put into the oven, highlighting that it is being disposed of. The same word is used for casting out something worthless, like salt that has lost its savour [[Matthew 5:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2823}}` is derived entirely from its metaphorical use.
* **A Symbol of Impermanence:** The **oven** is the final destination for grass, which symbolizes the fleeting nature of the physical world. God's attention to something so temporary is used to build a case for His care for eternal matters [[Matthew 6:30]].
* **A Contrast of Value:** The imagery creates a "how much more" argument. If God provides for the grass, which has so little value that it is simply fuel for the **oven**, it demonstrates His profound and superior provision for humanity [[Luke 12:28]].
* **An Image of Disposal:** The act of being "cast into the **oven**" serves as a picture of finality and disposal. This connects to the use of the verb **bállō** `{{G906}}` in other contexts of judgment, such as when the great dragon is "cast out" into the earth [[Revelation 12:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2823}}` **klíbanos** is a rare word that carries significant weight in its limited context. While it simply means **oven**, its role in the biblical narrative is to serve as a powerful teaching tool. It helps contrast the temporary, disposable nature of worldly things with the immense value God places on his people, anchoring a profound lesson about faith and divine providence.
TRV