### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **láchanon**, represented by `{{G3001}}`, refers to a **vegetable** or **herb**. It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a word meaning "to dig," which connects it to the idea of a cultivated garden plant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3001}}` is used in several contexts. In the Parable of the Mustard Seed, it is used to describe the category of plants from which the mustard plant, once grown, becomes the "greatest among **herbs**" ([[Matthew 13:32]], [[Mark 4:32]]). It is also mentioned in Jesus's critique of the Pharisees, who are admonished for tithing "mint and rue and all manner of **herbs**" while neglecting more important matters of the law [[Luke 11:42]]. Finally, the word describes the diet of a believer whose faith is considered "weak," as this person "eateth **herbs**" as a matter of conscience [[Romans 14:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the meaning and use of `{{G3001}}`:
* `{{G2068}}` **esthíō** (to eat): This verb is directly linked to `{{G3001}}` in the discussion of dietary practices, where a believer who is weak in faith "**eateth** herbs" [[Romans 14:2]].
* `{{G2238}}` **hēdýosmon** (mint): A specific type of herb mentioned alongside the general category of `{{G3001}}` in the list of items being tithed by the Pharisees [[Luke 11:42]].
* `{{G4076}}` **pḗganon** (rue): Another specific plant identified as an herb, which was also tithed along with "all manner of **herbs**" [[Luke 11:42]].
* `{{G4690}}` **spérma** (seed): This term is directly connected to `{{G3001}}` in the parable where the smallest of **seeds** grows to become the greatest among **herbs** [[Matthew 13:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3001}}` is seen in how it is used to illustrate key spiritual principles.
* **Kingdom Growth:** In the Parable of the Mustard Seed, an **herb** represents a stage of development. The mustard plant becoming the "greatest among **herbs**" symbolizes the surprising and powerful expansion of God's kingdom from humble beginnings [[Matthew 13:32]].
* **Spiritual Priorities:** The act of tithing **herbs** is used by Jesus to expose religious hypocrisy. It highlights the danger of focusing on minor external duties while ignoring the "weightier matters" of judgment and the love of God [[Luke 11:42]].
* **Faith and Conscience:** In Romans, the choice to eat only **herbs** is presented as an issue of personal conviction related to faith. It serves as an example for teaching believers not to judge one another on matters of conscience [[Romans 14:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3001}}` **láchanon** is more than just a botanical term for an **herb**. It serves as a key element in teachings about Christian liberty, the error of legalism, and the nature of kingdom growth. From a simple dietary choice to a symbol in a parable, **láchanon** demonstrates how ordinary elements of life are used in Scripture to convey profound spiritual truths.
TRV