### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pḗganon**, represented by `{{G4076}}`, is defined as **rue**, a plant noted for its thick or fleshy leaves. This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its significance is derived entirely from the context in which it is used as a point of criticism.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G4076}}` is in a rebuke from Jesus to the Pharisees. He states, "woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and **rue** and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God" [[Luke 11:42]]. Here, **rue** is used as an example of a minor garden herb that the Pharisees would meticulously tithe, demonstrating their extreme focus on the fine points of religious law while neglecting far more important spiritual principles.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this passage:
* `{{G586}}` **apodekatóō** (to tithe): This is the action applied to rue. The Pharisees are criticized because they **tithe** even the smallest of herbs, showing their legalistic diligence [[Luke 11:42]].
* `{{G2238}}` **hēdýosmon** (mint): A sweet-scented plant, it is mentioned directly alongside rue as another example of a minor tithable item [[Luke 11:42]].
* `{{G3001}}` **láchanon** (herb): This word provides the general category for rue, as the Pharisees tithed "all manner of **herbs**" [[Luke 11:42]].
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love): This is presented as one of the critical concepts the Pharisees "pass over." The tithing of rue is contrasted with the failure to practice "the **love** of God" [[Luke 11:42]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4076}}` comes from its role in Jesus' teaching on spiritual priorities.
* **External vs. Internal Righteousness:** The tithing of **rue** is used to symbolize external religious acts performed for show. This is contrasted with the neglected internal qualities of judgment and love, which are central to a true relationship with God [[Luke 11:42]].
* **The Weightier Matters:** The passage establishes a clear hierarchy of importance. While Jesus affirms that tithing should not be left undone, the focus on a common herb like **rue** serves to highlight the Pharisees' critical error of ignoring foundational commandments like "the **love** of God" [[Luke 11:42]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4076}}` **pḗganon**, or **rue**, is not significant on its own but for its place in a powerful critique of religious hypocrisy. Its single mention in scripture serves as a lasting illustration of the danger of prioritizing minor regulations over the core principles of God's law, specifically judgment and love. The meticulous tithing of **rue** becomes a symbol for a faith that has lost its proper focus.
TRV