### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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