### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kórax**, represented by `{{G2876}}`, refers to a **raven** or crow. Its definition suggests a link to the word for voracity. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single appearance a focused and significant illustration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical context, `{{G2876}}` is used by Jesus to teach about God's provision and to caution against anxiety. He says to **consider** `{{G2657}}` the **ravens** `{{G2876}}`, noting that they do not **sow** `{{G4687}}` or **reap** `{{G2325}}`, nor do they gather resources into a **storehouse** `{{G5009}}` or **barn** `{{G596}}`. Despite this lack of agricultural labor and storage, the verse states that "God **feedeth** `{{G5142}}` them," drawing a direct contrast between human toil and divine care [[Luke 12:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Luke 12:24]] help to clarify its meaning:
* `{{G2657}}` **katanoéō** (to observe fully): The verb that instructs the listener to thoughtfully consider the ravens as an object lesson.
* `{{G4687}}` **speírō** (to scatter, i.e. sow): This word describes the act of sowing seed, a fundamental human activity for survival that the ravens do not perform.
* `{{G2325}}` **therízō** (to harvest): The complementary action to sowing, this refers to reaping a crop, which is also unnecessary for the ravens under God's care.
* `{{G5009}}` **tameîon** (storehouse): This word denotes a storage chamber, highlighting that the ravens have no need for man-made repositories.
* `{{G596}}` **apothḗkē** (barn): A granary or barn, reinforcing the idea that the ravens do not stockpile resources for the future.
* `{{G5142}}` **tréphō** (to cherish (with food, etc.), pamper, rear): This term describes how God provides for the ravens, implying a nourishing and sustaining care.
* `{{G4071}}` **peteinón** (bird): This general term for fowl is used to make the final point of comparison, emphasizing humanity's greater value.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2876}}` is concentrated in its single use as a powerful metaphor.
* **Divine Provision:** The raven serves as the prime example of a creature living entirely by God's provision. That God **feedeth** `{{G5142}}` them without their participation in human-like labor demonstrates His direct and active care for His creation.
* **A Lesson Against Anxiety:** The instruction to "consider the ravens" is a call to learn from nature about the futility of worry. The raven's existence proves that life can be sustained outside of anxious human effort and planning.
* **The Argument of Value:** The illustration builds to a climax that centers on humanity's worth. Jesus concludes that if God provides for the **ravens** `{{G2876}}`, His care for people, who are "much more better than the **fowls** `{{G4071}}`," is guaranteed [[Luke 12:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **kórax** `{{G2876}}` is far more than a simple reference to a bird. In its one appearance, the **raven** functions as a profound symbol of life lived in dependence on divine providence. It is a key element in a teaching that contrasts the effectiveness of God's care with the limitations of human anxiety, ultimately affirming the immense value God places on people.
TRV