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.
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.
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.
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.
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