The Greek word krínon, represented by G2918, is the word for lily. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, where it is used as a specific illustration in the teachings of Jesus. The word serves as a symbol of natural beauty that exists without labor, highlighting God's provision.
In both of its occurrences, G2918 is used by Jesus to teach about trusting in God rather than worrying about material needs. In Matthew, he asks why people worry about raiment and directs them to "consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin" Matthew 6:28. The parallel account in Luke uses the same illustration, adding that "Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these" Luke 12:27, contrasting the splendor of a simple lily with the greatest of human wealth and effort.
Several related words clarify the context of the lily as an illustration:
- G2648 katamanthánō (to learn thoroughly, i.e. (by implication) to note carefully): This verb commands a deep observation of the lilies to understand the lesson they teach Matthew 6:28. In Luke's account, the similar word G2657 katanoéō (to observe fully) is used Luke 12:27.
- G837 auxánō (to grow ("wax"), i.e. enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive)): This describes the effortless development of the lilies, a key part of the analogy (Matthew 6:28, Luke 12:27).
- G2872 kopiáō (to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard): This word for "toil" is what the lilies do not do, contrasting their state with human labor Matthew 6:28.
- G3514 nḗthō (to spin): Along with toiling, this is another human activity related to making clothing that lilies do not perform (Matthew 6:28, Luke 12:27).
- G1742 éndyma (apparel (especially the outer robe):--clothing, garment, raiment): The lilies serve as an example of God's provision for covering, directly addressing the human anxiety over raiment Matthew 6:28.
The theological significance of G2918 is concentrated in its role as a teaching tool.
- Divine Provision: The lily illustrates God's ability to provide beautifully and sufficiently for His creation without any anxious effort from the recipient Matthew 6:28.
- Trust over Anxiety: By pointing to the lilies, Jesus critiques human worry over basic needs, showing it to be unnecessary in a world cared for by God. The lilies do not toil or spin, yet are clothed in splendor.
- God's Glory vs. Human Glory: The comparison to Solomon demonstrates that God's "natural" work is far superior to the most glorious human achievements, encouraging a re-evaluation of what is truly valuable Luke 12:27.
In summary, G2918, or krínon, is more than just a flower in scripture. Though mentioned only twice, it is a central image in one of Jesus' most memorable teachings on faith and anxiety. It functions as a powerful, tangible symbol of God's effortless and glorious provision, urging believers to trust in His care rather than succumbing to worry about their own material needs.
TRV