### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **xēraínō**, represented by `{{G3583}}`, primarily means **to desiccate** or **dry up**. It appears **16 times** in **16 unique verses** in the Bible. By implication, its meaning extends to concepts of shriveling, withering, pining away, or becoming mature and **ripe**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3583}}` is used to describe both natural processes and supernatural events. It depicts the withering of plants that lack roots or moisture when scorched by the **sun** ([[Matthew 13:6]], [[Luke 8:6]]). In a display of divine authority, Jesus causes a fig tree with no fruit to **wither away** instantly [[Matthew 21:19]]. The term is also applied to the human body, describing a man with a **withered** hand [[Mark 3:1]] and the pining away of a boy afflicted by an unclean spirit [[Mark 9:18]]. In a positive sense, it signifies maturation, as when the **harvest** of the earth is declared **ripe** and ready to be reaped [[Revelation 14:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G3583}}`:
* `{{G2246}}` **hḗlios** (the sun): This is often the agent that causes withering. In the parable of the sower, seed that falls on rocky ground withers away when the **sun** comes up [[Mark 4:6]]. Similarly, the **sun** with its "burning heat" withereth the grass [[James 1:11]].
* `{{G2390}}` **iáomai** (to heal): This word provides a direct contrast to the negative effects of withering. When the woman with the issue of blood is cured, the "fountain of her blood was **dried up**" `{{G3583}}`, and she feels in her body that she was **healed** of the plague [[Mark 5:29]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand): This word for hand is used to specify the part of the body afflicted in Mark's Gospel, where Jesus encounters a man in the synagogue with a **withered hand** [[Mark 3:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3583}}` is significant, often used metaphorically to convey deeper spiritual truths.
* **The Transience of Human Life:** The word illustrates the fleeting nature of humanity. Scripture states that "all flesh is as grass," and "the grass **withereth**" [[1 Peter 1:24]]. The rich man is warned that he will "fade away" just as a flower withers under the sun's heat [[James 1:11]].
* **Consequences of Spiritual Unfruitfulness:** To be separated from Christ, the source of life, is to wither. A branch that does not abide in Him is cast forth and **is withered**, destined to be gathered and burned [[John 15:6]]. The fig tree that was cursed and **withered away** was barren of fruit [[Mark 11:21]].
* **Divine Power and Judgment:** The act of withering can be a sign of divine power or judgment. Jesus's curse on the fig tree demonstrates His authority over nature [[Matthew 21:20]]. In Revelation, an angel pours out a vial that causes the river Euphrates to be **dried up** to prepare the way for the kings of the east [[Revelation 16:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3583}}` is a dynamic word that moves from the literal drying of a plant to the metaphorical withering of a person disconnected from God. It describes physical affliction, the natural cycle of life, and the ripeness of a harvest. Theologically, it serves as a powerful symbol of the temporary nature of earthly things, the stark reality of spiritual barrenness, and the ultimate authority of God over both creation and life itself.
TRV