κύμινον

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word kýminon, represented by G2951, is a term of foreign origin that refers to cummin. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its significance is derived entirely from its context as a tithable herb used to illustrate a point about religious priorities.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single appearance of G2951 is in a rebuke from Jesus to the scribes and Pharisees. In Matthew 23:23, he criticizes their hypocrisy, stating, "ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith." The meticulous tithing of a common spice like cummin is contrasted with their failure to uphold the core principles of God's law.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the use of kýminon:

• G586 apodekatóō (to tithe): This is the action the Pharisees perform. It is used in Matthew 23:23 to describe the paying of tithes on even the smallest herbs.
• G2238 hēdýosmon (mint): This herb is listed directly alongside cummin as another example of the Pharisees' scrupulous tithing practices Matthew 23:23.
• G432 ánēthon (dill): This herb completes the trio of spices mentioned in Matthew 23:23, collectively representing the minor details the Pharisees focused on.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G2951 is found entirely in its symbolic use.

• Critique of Legalism: The tithing of cummin is presented as a prime example of legalism, where adherence to minor, human-emphasized rules overshadows the fundamental commandments of God Matthew 23:23.
• The "Weightier Matters": The mention of cummin serves as a direct foil to the "weightier matters" of judgment, mercy, and faith, establishing a clear biblical hierarchy of spiritual duties.
• Balanced Obedience: While condemning their misplaced priorities, Jesus affirms that attention to detail is not inherently wrong, stating, "these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone" Matthew 23:23. The issue is not the tithing of cummin but the neglect of justice and faith.

Summary

In summary, G2951 is a simple word for an ordinary spice, cummin, but its role in scripture is significant. Its sole mention in the Bible serves as a powerful and memorable part of Jesus's teaching against hypocrisy. It illustrates how focusing on the smallest details of religious practice can become a critical failure when the foundational principles of judgment, mercy, and faith are ignored.